Saudi Arabia and Kuwait reverse curbs on bases that paused US mission in Hormuz: report

Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have lifted restrictions on the use of their military bases and airspace by US forces, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing US and Saudi officials.

Earlier, NBC News reported that Trump paused the operation after Saudi Arabia refused to allow US forces to use its airspace and bases, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly speaking directly to Trump to inform him of the decision.

US officials said the administration is now seeking to restart Project Freedom, which involves naval and air support for commercial shipping. The mission was paused after roughly 36 hours, with Pentagon officials indicating it could resume as early as this week.

What is Project Freedom and why was it paused?

Project Freedom is a US naval and air operation designed to escort commercial vessels safely through the Strait of Hormuz, using destroyers, fighter jets, helicopters, drones and surveillance aircraft.

It was paused after roughly 36 hours when Saudi Arabia restricted US access to its bases and airspace. Trump suspended the operation on Tuesday evening following a call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Why did Saudi Arabia and Kuwait block US military access?

According to Saudi officials, the two Gulf states imposed restrictions after senior US officials downplayed Iranian attacks in the region following the start of the operation. Saudi Arabia also feared that Washington might not provide sufficient protection amid escalating hostilities.

The restrictions triggered high-level diplomatic engagement, including direct phone calls between Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and raised concerns in Riyadh over the stability of longstanding security arrangements with Washington.

Trump later posted on social media that the pause had been agreed at the request of Pakistan and other countries. Access was restored after another round of discussions between the two leaders, US and Saudi officials said. Neither Saudi Arabia nor Kuwait immediately commented on the developments, and the Pentagon referred queries to the White House.

What happened during the initial phase of Project Freedom?

The operation initially saw US forces extract two American-flagged vessels from the Persian Gulf. Iran responded by launching cruise missiles and drones at US warships and commercial shipping. US forces intercepted several attacks and reportedly destroyed multiple Iranian fast-attack boats, though some non-US vessels were hit.

Iran also fired 15 missiles and additional drones at the UAE, striking the Fujairah oil hub in the first such incidents since the ceasefire between Washington and Tehran last month. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described Project Freedom as creating "a powerful red, white and blue dome over the strait," saying US assets were providing round-the-clock protection for commercial shipping.

What are Gulf states concerned about as the operation prepares to resume?

Regional states remain concerned that Tehran could interpret recent events as evidence it can strike Gulf targets without facing decisive retaliation. Saudi Arabia expressed particular concern after senior US military officials described Iranian strikes on ships and UAE territory as low-level harassment.

Iran has denied involvement in attacks on the UAE but warned of a "crushing response" if any action is launched against it from Gulf territory.

Defense officials said any resumed operation would involve coordinated maritime corridors for commercial vessels, cleared of mines and protected by US naval and air assets. The White House said Gulf partners were notified in advance of Project Freedom but did not address questions regarding basing negotiations. Pentagon officials indicated the operation could resume as early as this week, though no firm timeline has been confirmed.