Sources: Trump speaks with Saudi crown prince amid push for resolution to US-Iran war

President Donald Trump discussed de-escalation and concerns over potential strikes on Iran with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Saturday, according to sources familiar with the matter. The crown prince emphasized Saudi Arabia's desire to reduce tensions during the call.

Mediating countries, including Qatar and Pakistan, are actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to avert a new escalation between the US and Iran. Officials from these nations have been communicating with counterparts in both Iran and the United States, including Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff. A primary objective is to establish an arrangement with Oman that would allow commercial shipping to resume through the Strait of Hormuz.

This diplomatic push follows recent military actions, where US and Saudi fighter jets targeted multiple sites in Iraq. These strikes were a response to drones launched by Iranian-backed militias from Iraq toward Saudi Arabia. Trump had previously indicated a strong stance, stating at a Cabinet meeting on Friday that the US would retaliate forcefully against Iran, suggesting that Iran might eventually be unable to withstand further pressure.

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We will be hitting them very hard. At some point, they’re going to say, ‘We just can’t take it anymore.’