WSJ: Saudi Arabia and Kuwait lift restrictions on US military use of bases.

The Wall Street Journal is reporting Saudi Arabia and Kuwait lifted restrictions on U.S. military use of bases and airspace tied to operations around the Strait of Hormuz. The move clears a key obstacle for the U.S. effort to restart escorted commercial shipping operations through the strait. The U.S. had paused the mission, called Project Freedom, after concerns from Gulf allies about escalation and protection from Iranian retaliation. Saudi Arabia reportedly became concerned after U.S. officials appeared to downplay Iranian attacks on Gulf targets. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke directly with President Donald Trump multiple times during the dispute. The operation relies heavily on Saudi and Kuwaiti bases and airspace because of the large number of U.S. aircraft protecting ships. Iran responded to the U.S. mission by launching missiles and drones at ships and the United Arab Emirates, including strikes on the Fujairah oil hub. The U.S. said it intercepted attacks and destroyed several Iranian fast-attack boats, though some non-U.S. ships were hit. Gulf states are increasingly worried Iran may believe it can strike regional countries without facing major consequences. Pentagon officials said any resumed operation would route ships through a mine-cleared corridor protected by U.S. naval and air forces. Meanwhile, Iran foreign minister criticized the unilateral and provocative resolution submitted by the US and the Gulf on the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. They called the proposal one-sided and provocative. Araghchi emphasizing responsibility on the international community to prevent aggressors from abusing the Security Council as a tool to justify their illegal actions. Crude oil is trading higher and has pushed to a high of $97.46. That tests the corrective high price from yesterday after it tumble down to $88.70. The corrective high reached $97.34. Sellers are leaning on the first test. This article was written by Greg Michalowski at investinglive.com.