Saudi Arabia has officially refuted claims that it lobbied the Trump administration to initiate military action against Iran, firmly stating its consistent support for diplomatic resolutions. The denial comes amidst escalating tensions in the region following coordinated U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.
Fahad Nazer, spokesperson for the Saudi Embassy in Washington, explicitly denied recent media reports alleging Saudi pressure on the Trump administration. “At no point in all our communication with the Trump Administration did we lobby the President to adopt a different policy,” Nazer stated in a social media post. “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been consistent in supporting diplomatic efforts to reach a credible deal with Iran.”
The rebuttal responds to conflicting reports from major news outlets. The Washington Post had reported that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman advocated for military action during multiple phone conversations with former President Trump. Conversely, Middle East Eye reported that U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham traveled to Saudi Arabia in late February to convince the crown prince to support potential strikes.
Regional tensions have intensified significantly following joint U.S.-Israeli operations that resulted in the deaths of several high-profile Iranian figures, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and numerous military officials. Civilian casualties have mounted, with approximately 150 girls reported killed in a school strike in southern Iran last Saturday.
European powers have entered the fray, with France, Germany, and the United Kingdom announcing their readiness to protect their interests and those of Gulf allies through “defensive action” if necessary. This development occurs alongside Iran’s continued retaliatory measures, including missile and drone attacks on Israeli and U.S. assets throughout the region.
Analysts warn that prolonged conflict could fundamentally reshape regional alliances. Firas Maksad of Eurasia Group noted that “Iran is forcing the GCC up the escalation ladder,” suggesting Gulf states may need to consider enhanced responses or grant the U.S. greater operational freedom.
The UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem Al Hashimy, indicated the possibility of opening airspace and military bases to support U.S. operations if Iranian retaliatory strikes continue. This marks a potential significant shift in regional security cooperation.
Iran has announced new leadership following the recent targeted killings and has vowed revenge against participating nations. Among the confirmed casualties are several senior military figures, including Mohammad Pakpour, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh.