[Bug] CLAUDE.md rules not persisted across prompts in session

Bug Description
CLAUDE.md instructions are ignored unless explicitly reminded each prompt.

Issue: Claude Code does not reliably follow rules defined in CLAUDE.md.
I have to interrupt (ESC) and remind Claude to "read CLAUDE.md" on nearly
every request. This wastes tokens and defeats the purpose of the file.

Setup:

• CLAUDE.md in project root with clear, mandatory rules
• Symlinked to ~/.claude/CLAUDE.md for global coverage
• File has prominent header: "⚠️ MANDATORY PROJECT RULES"

Behavior:

• First prompt in session: sometimes follows rules
• Subsequent prompts: ignores rules, uses defaults
• After /compact: completely ignores CLAUDE.md
• Requires manual reminder each time

Impact:

• Wasted tokens (paid subscription)
• Broken workflows
• Loss of trust in the tool

This matches existing issues #2544, #4017, #7777 with 40+ combined upvotes.

Environment Info

• Platform: darwin
• Terminal: iTerm.app
• Version: 2.0.76