Trump Shelved ‘Project Freedom’ After Saudis Refused Use of Bases and Airspace
Riyadh told White House it would deny access for operation to provide tankers military escort through strait of Hormuz
TL;DR
- Saudi Arabia denied the US permission to use its bases and airspace for 'Project Freedom', a military escort for oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.
- The decision was made despite a personal call between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and President Trump.
- Saudi Arabia seeks a permanent end to the conflict with Iran, differing from the more assertive United Arab Emirates (UAE).
- The UAE is frustrated with Saudi caution and has considered leaving Opec and the Arab League.
- Saudi Arabia feared 'Project Freedom' lacked clear engagement terms and could lead to a naval confrontation with Iran, ending the existing ceasefire.
- Iran had warned that escorting oil tankers or attacking Iranian shipping would be considered a breach of ceasefire.
- Trump announced the shelving of 'Project Freedom' citing progress towards a deal with Iran, partly due to China's intervention, without mentioning Saudi objections.
- Saudi Arabia was also concerned about the Houthi involvement in Yemen potentially disrupting Red Sea oil supplies.
- The Saudi intervention is likely to worsen relations with the UAE, which has been bolder in navigating the Iran blockade.