Saudi Arabia refuses to back U.S. operation in Strait of Hormuz

Saudi Arabia refused to support the U.S. operation Project Freedom, launched to secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, Vesti.az reported, citing NBC News.

According to the report, Washington did not notify Gulf states in advance about the operation, prompting dissatisfaction in Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia informed the United States that U.S. forces would not be allowed to use Prince Sultan Air Base and that the kingdom’s airspace would be closed to them.

A phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman did not change Riyadh’s position, after which Washington was forced to temporarily suspend the operation.