Saudi Defense Minister Tells US Vice President Riyadh Seeks De-escalation With Iran Unlike Netanyahu

Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met with US Vice President Kamala Harris at the White House on Wednesday, conveying a message from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that Saudi Arabia aims to prevent escalation with Iran, in contrast to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The meeting focused on the ongoing conflict with Iran and the recent joint US-Saudi strikes against pro-Iranian militias in Iraq.

Prince Khalid emphasized that attacks by these militias on Saudi energy infrastructure crossed a red line, prompting Riyadh's military response alongside US Central Command (CENTCOM). The strikes followed over 30 drone attacks attributed to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps against Saudi targets within 72 hours. The Saudi defense ministry confirmed its participation in the coordinated strikes.

A source familiar with the meeting said Prince Khalid clarified that Saudi Arabia’s retaliatory actions do not indicate support for escalation but reflect a readiness to defend itself if necessary. The Saudi defense minister also noted that unlike Netanyahu, who is pushing for escalation with Iran, Saudi Arabia prefers de-escalation as the more effective approach.

The meeting occurred a day after Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, where he discussed regional challenges with President Donald Trump. The Saudi side also highlighted ongoing negotiations with the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen and stated Riyadh’s capability to handle the Houthi threat independently without further US military involvement at this stage.

This diplomatic exchange underscores Saudi Arabia’s strategic positioning amid regional tensions and its close alliance with the US, while distinguishing its approach from Israel’s hardline stance toward Iran.