Saudi Arabia Denies US Airspace for Hormuz Operations

Saudi Arabia has prohibited the United States from using its airspace to launch operations aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by two anonymous sources to AFP on Friday. The sources indicated that Saudi Arabia has consistently refused to allow U.S. military operations from its territory, particularly following a recent announcement by U.S.

President Donald Trump to pause a two-day-old project known as "Freedom of Navigation" in the Strait. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the de facto leader of Saudi Arabia, reportedly communicated directly with Trump, emphasizing the kingdom's stance against escalating military operations.

Saudi Arabia's Deputy Minister of Public Diplomacy, Rai Krimli, reiterated the kingdom's commitment to supporting de-escalation and negotiation efforts. This comes in the wake of Iranian attacks on U.S. military vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, which have heightened tensions in the region.