Saudi Arabia Blocks US from Using Its Airspace for Strait of Hormuz Operation

Saudi Arabia has denied the United States permission to use its airspace and military bases for operations aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, according to Saudi officials. The prohibition applies specifically to the short-lived US mission, but Washington will still be allowed access for other purposes.

The move reflects the kingdom’s longstanding position against using its territory for attacks on Iran. Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump paused “Project Freedom,” an operation to guide ships through the strait, following a clash with Iran that threatened a fragile ceasefire.

US media reports indicated that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman directly communicated the refusal to Trump. A Saudi official explained that the kingdom opposed the operation, believing it would only worsen tensions without success.

In a social media post, Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister for Public Diplomacy reaffirmed the kingdom’s commitment to de-escalation and negotiation.

Meanwhile, Trump stated that the ceasefire with Iran remains intact, despite an Iranian attack on three American destroyers in the strait. The US military responded with strikes on Iranian targets, though Tehran accused Washington of initiating the exchange.