Saudi Arabia and UAE clash over US strategy on Iran

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman warned President Donald Trump that any large‑scale US bombing of Iran would provoke retaliation against Saudi energy infrastructure and urged a de‑escalation approach. In contrast, the United Arab Emirates, speaking from Abu Dhabi, pressed Trump for a tougher military response, arguing that only stronger force would curb the Iranian Revolutionary Guard’s ambitions and secure the Strait of Hormuz. Both Gulf states share concern that a prolonged conflict could endanger their oil facilities and regional stability, and they have sought additional US air‑defence support. The disagreement highlights divergent Gulf tactics as Washington weighs further strikes after earlier plans were paused following diplomatic talks.

The split underscores the fragile balance between diplomatic dialogue and military pressure in a region critical to global energy markets.