Saudi Arabia’s refusal to allow the United States to use its airspace and military bases reportedly played a major role in President Donald Trump’s decision to suspend Project Freedom, a new report has revealed.
According to NBC, despite a personal phone call between Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Riyadh rejected the request to use Prince Sultan Airbase for the mission.
This operation was launched as a follow-up to the American bombing campaign known as Operation Epic Fury.
Its purpose was to transport oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz due to continuing tensions with Iran.
Saudi Arabia reportedly feared that the operation could lead to a broader military confrontation with Tehran and further destabilize the Gulf region.
Iran warned that it would view US naval escort and attacks on Iranian shipping as violations of the ceasefire.
Trump later announced the halting of the operation, saying that “major progress” had been made toward a potential deal with Iran.
The US President did not mention Saudi objections when explaining the decision.
The report highlights the growing divisions among Gulf countries over the conflict.
Saudi Arabia has pushed for a permanent end to the war, while the United Arab Emirates has taken a more aggressive stance against Iran.
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