US to resume Hormuz op as Saudi, Kuwait lift curbs on military bases, airspace: WSJ

The United States is preparing to restart its naval mission to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz as Saudi Arabia and Kuwait reportedly lifted restrictions on the use of their military bases and airspace. The restrictions had been imposed after the US launched an operation to reopen the strait. This gives fresh momentum to the Trump administration’s plan to resume naval escorts for commercial vessels.

According to The Wall Street Journal, US officials could resume Project Freedom, which was paused earlier this week after just 36 hours. Pentagon officials say the operation could restart as early as this week, but no final decision has been made.

The US military campaign depends heavily on access to Gulf bases and airspace. Warships, aircraft and surveillance systems are needed to shield commercial vessels from missile and drone threats. Saudi Arabia and Kuwait had earlier blocked that access.

Trump's operation quickly met with Iranian resistance. Missiles and drones were launched at the UAE from the Iranian side. The strikes hit Fujairah, the country’s main oil-export hub. The US intercepted several attacks and destroyed multiple Iranian fast boats. Still, some vessels were hit. Gulf states feared they could be next. They were concerned the US response might not be strong enough to deter further strikes.

TRUMP-MBS CALL PAUSED PROJECT FREEDOM

The issue led to direct talks between Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Crown Prince flagged dangers and informed Washington about the restrictions. Trump paused Project Freedom after the call. He later said the pause came at the request of Pakistan and other countries.

Access was restored after another round of talks between the two leaders, according to US and Saudi officials. Saudi Arabia and Kuwait did not immediately comment.

Project Freedom is designed to escort ships through a narrow, mine-cleared corridor under US protection. The operation relies on a large deployment of naval and air assets. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth described it as a major security shield.

"As a direct gift from the United States to the world, we have established a powerful red, white and blue dome over the strait," he said.

"American destroyers are on station, supported by hundreds of fighter jets, helicopters, drones, and surveillance aircraft, providing 24/7 overwatch for peaceful commercial vessels," he added.

The ceasefire announced a month earlier is still in place, although it has been breached several times. In the latest incident, Iran’s IRIB broadcaster, citing a military official, said Iranian forces fired missiles at "enemy units" after a US attack on an Iranian tanker in the Hormuz.

TALKS OFFER LIMITED HOPE

Diplomatic efforts are continuing despite the tensions. The US and Iran are exploring a short-term deal to stop the fighting. The focus is on halting the conflict first. Core disputes, especially over Iran’s nuclear programme, are unresolved. Under the proposal, both sides would ease tensions around the strait and move into a 30-day period of talks for a broader deal.

"Our priority is that they announce a permanent end to war and the rest of the issues could be thrashed out once they get back to direct talks," a senior Pakistani official involved in mediation told news agency Reuters.

IRAN IMPOSES STRICT NEW HORMUZ TRANSIT RULES

In the meantime, Iran has moved to assert control over the Strait of Hormuz, according to CNN. Tehran now demands ships to seek permission before transit. A new body, the Persian Gulf Strait Authority, has been set up to manage traffic. Ships must submit details in advance, including ownership, crew and cargo.

The document warns that "complete and accurate information is essential" and adds that "any incorrect or incomplete information provided will be the sole responsibility of the applicant, and any resulting consequences will be borne accordingly".

It also raises the risk of further escalation.

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