Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke with President Donald Trump on Saturday, expressing concerns regarding Trump's considerations for significant military strikes against Iran. This information comes from two U.S. officials and another source familiar with the conversation.
Trump is reportedly contemplating attacks on Iranian energy targets in response to a missile strike by Iran on a U.S. base in Jordan and ongoing disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. However, he has not yet issued final orders for such actions.
The potential strikes could escalate the ongoing conflict, which has seen periods of negotiation followed by renewed hostilities. Iran has indicated it would retaliate against energy and infrastructure facilities in Israel and Gulf countries.
During the call, the Saudis requested clarification on Trump's plans, with one U.S. official noting that MBS urged Trump to de-escalate the situation. Both the White House and the Saudi embassy in Washington did not provide comments on the matter.
Earlier in the week, Trump met with Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, who conveyed Saudi Arabia's preference for de-escalation with Iran, despite a recent joint U.S.-Saudi strike against pro-Iranian militias in Iraq.
Saudi Arabia remains a key ally for the U.S. in the region and has influenced U.S. Iran policy during critical moments since the conflict began. Other regional powers, including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and Pakistan, are also advocating for de-escalation between the U.S. and Iran.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi engaged in discussions with Pakistani and Turkish officials regarding the situation, warning that any hostile actions by the U.S. or Israel would provoke a decisive response from Iran's military.
Qatari mediators are also working to facilitate talks aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, with some progress reported, although the potential for crisis resolution remains uncertain.