Trump shelved ‘Project Freedom’ after Saudis refused use of bases and airspace
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- Saudi Arabia refused US access to its bases and airspace for Project Freedom, a military escort operation for oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, leading President Trump to shelve the plan shortly after its launch.
- Riyadh's rejection, despite direct talks between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Trump, reflects Saudi Arabia's preference for ending the US-Israel war on Iran and concerns over escalating conflict risks.
- The UAE, frustrated by Saudi caution and feeling insufficient Gulf solidarity against Iranian attacks, has distanced itself by leaving OPEC and considering exiting the Arab League, highlighting tensions within the Gulf Cooperation Council.
- Saudi Arabia feared Project Freedom could provoke a naval confrontation with Iran, end the existing ceasefire, and trigger renewed Iranian drone and missile attacks on Gulf infrastructure and US bases.
- The Saudi decision underscores Riyadh's lack of confidence in US conflict management and may worsen Saudi-Emirati relations amid concerns over UAE-Israel ties and regional security dynamics.
