Riyadh Seeks Diplomatic Solution in Tehran Tensions

A report claiming that Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman requested US President Donald Trump to refrain from escalating tensions with Iran indicates Riyadh's continued preference for a political solution and agreement with Tehran, according to an analyst.

Hussein Ibrahim, writing for the Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar, states that this approach shows Saudi Arabia is not willing to enter into a direct and widespread confrontation with Iran. He argues that while Riyadh can influence some US decisions due to its economic and oil position, it ultimately remains the smaller partner of the United States.

Ibrahim suggests that any planning for an attack on Iran involved the role of the Zionist regime, which could have led to a reciprocal response against the energy facilities of Persian Gulf countries. He believes that Saudi Arabia cannot tolerate a full-scale and uncontrolled war with Iran, as it would cause significant damage to the security and economy of the region.