Saudi Crown Prince Urges Trump to Reconsider Strikes on Iran

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly asked US President Donald Trump to reconsider launching large-scale military strikes against Iran during a phone call on Saturday. The conversation, detailed in an Axios report citing US officials, highlighted Saudi concerns about potential regional escalation.

According to sources familiar with the call, MBS conveyed Saudi Arabia's apprehension and sought clarity on the US plan of action. He urged Trump to de-escalate the situation rather than proceed with significant military action, fearing it could trigger an unprecedented regional conflict. Both the Saudi Embassy in Washington and the White House declined to comment on the report.

The report emerges as Israel has reportedly heightened its alert status and readiness for a potential resumption of large US strikes on Iran, according to two Israeli sources speaking to The Jerusalem Post. This suggests a heightened state of tension and preparedness in the region.

Saudi Arabia is not alone in its concerns. Axios reported that several other countries in the region have also implored Trump to avoid escalating the situation with Iran. These nations include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and Pakistan, all of whom have reportedly voiced similar apprehensions about the potential consequences of large-scale strikes.

While the report indicates that indirect talks between the US and Iran on Saturday saw some progress, no definitive agreement has been reached. The diplomatic efforts continue amidst heightened military readiness and regional anxieties.