Hiring freeze rumors or just slow recruitment?

Hi all, I'm in the process of interviewing for a role at Marriott and it feels like it's dragging on a lot longer than expected. The initial recruiter seemed really keen, but since the hiring manager interview, things have gone quiet. I followed up and was told they are 'still reviewing candidates' and that there might be a 'temporary pause on external hires' while they assess needs. This sounds suspiciously like a hiring freeze to me. Has anyone else experienced this recently, either as an internal candidate or someone going through the external hiring process? Are roles that were posted still open, or have they been pulled down? I'm trying to figure out if I should keep my hopes up for this position or focus my energy elsewhere. Any insights from current Marriott employees or recent candidates would be super helpful. Is the company actually tightening its belt, or is this just a slow hiring cycle? Thanks in advance.