Saudis feared Trump’s Project Freedom would spur Iran to attack, officials say
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WASHINGTON — The U.S. military blockade of Iran’s ports will eventually deprive Tehran of crucial oil revenue, but the regime could likely withstand the pressure for months without a major economic crisis or lasting damage to its oil fields, energy industry analysts and two Western officials told NBC News
Saudi officials were angered by President Donald Trump’s surprise announcement that the U.S. would start guiding ships through the Strait of Hormuz, fearing the move could spur more Iranian attacks on Gulf allies. Iran could withstand U.S. blockade for months, Western officials and experts say NBC News Saudis feared Trump’s Project Freedom would spur Iran to attack, officials say NBC News CIA analysis suggests Iran could withstand blockade for 4 more months CBC
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