What’s app freezing

I have an iPhone 16 and updated to iOS 18. Since I start use the phone after uploading the apps WhatsApp keeps freezing almost everytime I open it and it will last for hours , displaying "Connecting..." It is frustrating since message notifications work so for example I tap on them and then I have to wait a lot before I can answer them or even view them. If I restart the phone it will works for 2 minutes then freez , Any solutions to this?? I tried deleting the app and use another number but still the issue exist Thanks in advance