KSA tells Trump Iran has lost leverage in Syria and Lebanon

Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman met with U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, sharing insights into regional dynamics, according to sources familiar with the private discussions.

During the meeting on Wednesday, Prince Khalid conveyed Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's assessment that Iran's influence has diminished in Syria and Lebanon. This perspective suggests a shift in regional power balances, with Saudi Arabia viewing Iran's regional sway as weakened in these specific areas.

Despite the perceived loss of leverage in Syria and Lebanon, the assessment indicated that Iran still manages to provide support to Houthi forces in Yemen and various militias operating in Iraq. This ongoing support highlights the persistent challenges and complexities of countering Iranian influence across the Middle East.

The discussions occurred amidst heightened tensions, including recent ballistic missile launches by Iran-aligned Houthis targeting a Saudi oil tanker and their declaration of a naval blockade on Saudi vessels in the Red Sea. Saudi Arabia has also publicly joined military escalations against Tehran-backed proxies in Iraq, signaling a more assertive stance against Iranian-backed groups.