The Wall Street Journal is reporting Saudi Arabia and Kuwait lifted restrictions on U.S. military use of bases and airspace tied to operations around the Strait of Hormuz.
The move clears a key obstacle for the U.S. effort to restart escorted commercial shipping operations through the strait
The U.S. had paused the mission, called Project Freedom, after concerns from Gulf allies about escalation and protection from Iranian retaliation. Saudi Arabia reportedly became concerned after U.S. officials appeared to downplay Iranian attacks on Gulf targets. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke directly with President Donald Trump multiple times during the dispute.
The operation relies heavily on Saudi and Kuwaiti bases and airspace because of the large number of U.S. aircraft protecting ships. Iran responded to the U.S. mission by launching missiles and drones at ships and the United Arab Emirates, including strikes on the Fujairah oil hub. The U.S. said it intercepted attacks and destroyed several Iranian fast-attack boats, though some non-U.S. ships were hit.