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WASHINGTON — Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have quietly reopened their bases and airspace to the US military, which could allow President Trump to re-up his currently paused “Project Freedom” mission to protect shipping through the Strait of Hormuz against Iranian attacks, the Wall Street Journal reported.
The Gulf countries had previously balked at letting the US use their territory for “Project Freedom,” which Trump called off on Tuesday less than 48 hours after it took effect, citing a request from Pakistan and “other countries.”
President Donald Trump speaks with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. REUTERS
USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) transits the Arabian Sea before Project Freedom was paused. U.S. Central CommandIran had warned neighboring countries not to help the US, raising fears of retaliation as Tehran launched missile and drone attacks across the region. The Strait of Hormuz carries about a fifth of the world’s oil supply, making it one of the planet’s most critical shipping lanes.
The previous restrictions were lifted after talks between Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, according to the WSJ, which cited “US and Saudi officials.” Pakistan later confirmed that Saudi Arabia was among the other nations the US consulted.
The move clears the way for the Pentagon to ramp up naval escorts and air operations in the Gulf should Trump choose to do so.
The White House and Pentagon did not immediately respond to requests for comments.
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