NBC News: Saudi Arabia Restricts Airbase Access, Prompting Trump to Freeze "Project Freedom" in Hormuz

In a 2026 diplomatic shift, NBC News reported that President Trump suspended "Project Freedom" after Saudi Arabia denied the US military use of Prince Sultan Air Base and its airspace. The 2026 initiative, aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, reportedly surprised Gulf allies when announced via social media. Despite regular communication between Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the 2026 disagreement over operational sovereignty led to a tactical halt. While the White House claims prior notification, sources indicate that coordination with Oman and Qatar occurred post-announcement. Riyadh remains focused on 2026 diplomatic mediation led by Pakistan to end the regional conflict through a sustainable US-Iran agreement.