Washington: Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman held an urgent meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, during which he delivered a special message from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the American leadership.
According to U.S. media reports, the primary purpose of the meeting was to discuss the evolving security situation in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia’s position on Iran, and efforts to maintain regional stability.
Earlier, Prince Khalid bin Salman also met with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, where he stressed that Saudi Arabia seeks to reduce tensions with Iran and believes diplomacy remains the most effective path toward regional peace.
The Saudi defense minister stated that attacks by Iran-backed Iraqi militias on critical infrastructure and energy facilities had crossed a "red line," forcing the Kingdom to respond. However, he emphasized that Saudi military action in Iraq was not intended to escalate the conflict but to demonstrate the Kingdom’s readiness to defend itself.
He further said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been pushing for increased tensions with Iran, while Saudi Arabia believes that de-escalation is the most beneficial course for ensuring peace and stability in the region.
Citing informed sources, U.S. media reported that Saudi strikes in Iraq were also intended to send a clear message to the Houthis. Prince Khalid told Vice President Vance that Saudi Arabia is fully capable of dealing with the Houthis independently and does not currently require direct U.S. military involvement. He also revealed that negotiations with the Houthis are ongoing.
