US President Donald Trump abruptly backed away from a plan to support ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz after a key ally, Saudi Arabia, refused to cooperate, according to a report by NBC News.
The plan, called “Project Freedom,” was announced suddenly on social media, catching Gulf allies off guard. Saudi officials were reportedly frustrated by the lack of prior consultation. In response, Riyadh denied the US military permission to use its bases and airspace for the operation; a critical requirement for any such mission in the region.
Officials said the decision forced Trump to halt the plan in order to maintain access to Saudi airspace, which remains vital for US military operations in the Gulf. A phone call between Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman failed to resolve the dispute.
Other regional allies were also surprised. Trump reportedly spoke with Qatari leaders only after the operation had already begun, further highlighting tensions over coordination.
At the same time, Iran signaled a firm stance on the strategic waterway. Mohsen Rezaei, a senior Iranian official and former Revolutionary Guard commander, said control of the Strait of Hormuz must remain in Iranian hands. He warned that allowing foreign powers to dominate the passage would turn it into a weapon against Iran once again.
Iran also emphasized that regional security should be managed by countries in the region, not by outside forces such as the United States or Europe.
Despite rising tensions, Tehran sought to present itself as a responsible maritime actor. Iranian authorities announced that ports are ready to provide fuel, technical support, and medical services to ships operating in the Strait and nearby waters.
Meanwhile, Iran denied any involvement in a recent explosion on a South Korean vessel in the Strait. The cause of the incident remains unclear, though Trump had earlier claimed Iran was responsible. Tehran rejected the accusation, calling it baseless.
Diplomatic efforts to end the conflict continue, with Pakistan playing a mediating role. Trump expressed optimism, saying a deal could come soon. However, key issues remain unresolved, including Iran’s nuclear programme and the future control of the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian officials have shown skepticism toward the US proposal. One lawmaker described it as unrealistic, while parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf mocked reports of progress, calling them little more than American “spin.”
The Strait of Hormuz remains at the center of the crisis. Before the conflict began in late February, it carried about one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas. Now, its future and the stability of global energy supplies hangs in the balance.
