Saudi Defense Minister Tells US Vice President Riyadh Seeks De-escalation with Iran

Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met with US Vice President Kamala Harris at the White House on Wednesday to convey a message from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) emphasizing Saudi Arabia's desire to avoid escalation with Iran, contrasting this stance with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's approach. According to a source familiar with the meeting, the discussion focused on the ongoing conflict with Iran and the recent joint US-Saudi strikes against pro-Iranian militias in Iraq.

The Saudi minister explained that attacks by these militias on Saudi infrastructure and energy facilities crossed a red line, prompting Riyadh's military response alongside the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The strikes came after over 30 drone attacks attributed to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targeted Saudi sites within 72 hours. Prince Khalid stressed that Saudi Arabia's actions were defensive and not indicative of a desire for further escalation.

This meeting occurred a day after Netanyahu's visit to Washington, where he reportedly discussed regional challenges with President Donald Trump. The Saudi minister reportedly told Vice President Harris that Netanyahu favors escalation with Iran, while Saudi Arabia prefers de-escalation as a more effective strategy. The Saudi defense chief also noted Riyadh's capability to handle the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen independently and mentioned ongoing negotiations with the Houthis.

The source added that Saudi Arabia's strong response in Iraq also aimed to deter the Houthis from launching similar attacks on Saudi territory. The US Vice President's office declined to comment on the meeting. This dialogue reflects Saudi Arabia's complex balancing act amid regional tensions involving Iran, Israel, and US interests.