freedom’ Hormuz ship
escort plan after Saudi
Arabia restricts US bases
freedom’ Hormuz ship
escort plan after Saudi
Arabia restricts US bases
Saudi officials were reportedly surprised and angered by the unilateral announcement. In response, Riyadh informed Washington that US military aircraft would not be permitted to operate from Prince Sultan Airbase (southeast of Riyadh) or transit Saudi airspace to support the escort mission
DNA
Washington — US President Donald Trump has suspended a newly announced military operation to escort commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz after Saudi Arabia blocked American forces from using key bases and airspace for the mission, according to two US officials cited by NBC News.
The short-lived initiative, dubbed “Project Freedom,” was announced by Trump on Sunday via Truth Social. It aimed to provide US guidance and protection for vessels transiting the strategically vital waterway amid ongoing tensions and a blockade affecting shipping in the region. Some ships reportedly began moving under the plan before it was halted roughly 36 hours later.
Saudi officials were reportedly surprised and angered by the unilateral announcement. In response, Riyadh informed Washington that US military aircraft would not be permitted to operate from Prince Sultan Airbase (southeast of Riyadh) or transit Saudi airspace to support the escort mission. Other Gulf allies were also taken aback, per the reports.
A subsequent phone call between President Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman failed to resolve the impasse. Facing the loss of critical regional access, the Trump administration chose to pause the operation to safeguard broader US military posture in the Gulf.
Official vs. Reported ReasonsThe White House has framed the pause as supporting ongoing diplomatic efforts with Iran. However, US officials told NBC News that the Saudi restrictions were the primary catalyst for the abrupt reversal.
This development highlights rare public friction between Washington and a key Gulf partner, even as the US maintains pressure on Iranian ports while pursuing talks.The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical chokepoints for global oil transport. No immediate comments from Saudi officials or further details on the status of diplomatic negotiations were available in the reports.
