The recent meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and US President Donald Trump has sparked significant interest, particularly regarding discussions on the potential sale of F-35 fighter jets and nuclear technology sharing with Riyadh. However, within Iran, the focus shifted to a written message sent by Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian to the Saudi leader just before his departure. While Iranian government officials downplayed the message as a simple note of gratitude for Saudi assistance with Iranian Hajj pilgrims, media outlets close to the government hinted at deeper implications. These sources suggested that Mohammed bin Salman could emerge as a new mediator in talks between Tehran and Washington, potentially revitalizing stalled nuclear negotiations. Pro-Pezeshkian newspapers prominently featured the story, with headlines like ‘News Bombshell of Messaging to Riyadh’ and ‘A Message Just Before Boarding,’ while hard-line publications ignored it entirely. The Sharq daily emphasized the Crown Prince’s potential role in facilitating indirect talks, while Arman Emroz speculated on Riyadh’s involvement in resolving disputes over Iran’s enriched uranium and the possibility of a regional nuclear consortium. Meanwhile, Tehran residents faced alarming news of a looming water crisis, with experts criticizing the government’s mismanagement of resources. In a separate development, the suicide of journalist Fowad Shams highlighted the immense pressures faced by Iranian society, particularly journalists. Additionally, Iranian students protested outside European embassies in Tehran, frustrated by visa delays despite their university acceptances. The Turin court condemned the treatment of Iranian students as ‘discriminatory,’ yet no progress has been made.
Iranian press review: Mohammed bin Salman seen as possible bridge between US and Iran
