In a significant diplomatic development, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held urgent telephone discussions on Thursday amid escalating regional tensions. The conversation centered on potential military confrontation between Iran and the United States, with Araghchi emphasizing Tehran’s readiness to “defend itself against any foreign threat.”
The diplomatic exchange occurred as Washington continues to contemplate military options in response to Iran’s handling of domestic protests. According to Araghchi’s Telegram channel statement, the Iranian minister stressed the critical need for “global condemnation of foreign interference in the internal affairs of regional countries.”
In a crucial development, Saudi Arabia directly communicated to Tehran that it would not permit its territory or airspace to be utilized for any military offensive against Iran. A source close to the Saudi military confirmed to AFP that “Saudi Arabia has informed Tehran directly that it will not be part of any military action taken against it.”
The Saudi Press Agency acknowledged the conversation, noting that both ministers “discussed developments in the region and how to enhance its security and stability.” This diplomatic engagement occurs against the backdrop of explicit warnings from Tehran that it would target US military and shipping assets if attacked, while the United States maintains that military response remains an option concerning Iran’s protest crackdown.