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>>Saudi Arabia and Kuwait lifted their base restrictions, allowing Project Freedom to resume.

Saudi Arabia and Kuwait lifted their base restrictions, allowing Project Freedom to resume.

crypthub

about 1 hour ago

Ban Reversal

Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have removed their bans on U.S. military use of bases and airspace, clearing the main obstacle to restart Project Freedom. The decision follows a brief period when both states blocked U.S. access to key facilities. Details of the agreement have not been disclosed, but Pentagon officials say a restart is possible. The change comes as U.S. markets fell on reports of a planned restart.

Project Freedom’s Start and Halt

The operation began to escort commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint handling about 20% of global oil. Initial escorts succeeded, but Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on U.S. warships and regional assets. Saudi Arabia and Kuwait withdrew support, citing unclear rules of engagement and retaliation risks, prompting President Trump to pause the mission. He described the pause as a diplomatic window to seek an Iran deal, with China and Pakistan mediating.

Regional Fallout and Outlook

The crisis revealed splits within the Gulf Cooperation Council, with the UAE exiting OPEC and eyeing an Arab League departure. Saudi Arabia is diversifying export routes, securing a pipeline to send half its oil through the Red Sea. Markets remain wary; renewed risks could lift global energy prices. The future of Project Freedom depends on Iran’s response to any second phase and the ability to secure the strait.