Saudi, Kuwait lift curbs on US base, airspace access

Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have lifted previously imposed restrictions on the US military’s use of their airspace and bases, according to a Wall Street Journal report on Thursday. The move removes a significant obstacle for President Donald Trump’s efforts to protect commercial shipping routes through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Naval escort operations to resume

Citing US and Saudi officials, the newspaper reported that the Trump administration is preparing to restart naval escort operations for commercial vessels transiting the Hormuz strait, supported by US naval and air power. The mission had been paused earlier this week after operating for 36 hours. Pentagon planners are now assessing timelines for resuming the operation, with some US officials indicating activities could restart as early as this week.

Background of tensions and blockade

Regional tensions have escalated sharply since the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28, triggering Iranian retaliation against Israel and American allies in the Gulf, as well as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A ceasefire brokered by Pakistan took effect on April 8, but subsequent talks in Islamabad failed to produce a lasting agreement. The truce was later extended indefinitely by Trump. The US has enforced a naval blockade targeting Iranian maritime traffic in the strait since April 13. Trump announced Tuesday that the US military would temporarily pause “Project Freedom” to restore navigation freedom for commercial shipping, while stating that the American blockade would remain “in full force and effect.” Türkiye, a key regional power with close ties to both Gulf states and Iran, continues to urge diplomatic solutions to prevent a full-scale maritime conflict.