Saudi Arabia officially dismissed allegations that its leadership seeks to prolong the current US-Israeli conflict with Iran. A senior Foreign Ministry official reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to regional stability during an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat. Furthermore, the official emphasized that Saudi Arabia remains focused on ending hostilities despite continued provocations from Tehran.
Firm Warnings to Tehran
The ministry highlighted recent statements from Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah regarding the regional security crisis, as he declared, during a press conference in Riyadh, that “Iran must cease its attacks” to prevent further escalation. Moreover, the official added that the Kingdom’s patience “has limits” and it reserves the right to repel aggression. Consequently, Riyadh may utilize political or other necessary means to protect its national interests against any external threats.
Intercepting Aerial Threats
Iranian forces continue to target Gulf nations with rockets and drones as the conflict enters its fourth week. However, Saudi air defenses successfully downed 44 drones in the Eastern Region on Tuesday to ensure public safety. Bahrain and the UAE also intercepted dozens of missiles and drones, demonstrating a high level of regional military readiness. Early Wednesday, the Defense Ministry destroyed a ballistic missile and more than 20 drones over the Eastern Province before they reached targets.
The United Nations Rights Council will meet on Wednesday to discuss these persistent attacks on sovereign Gulf territories. Meanwhile, the UAE Ministry of Defense confirmed that an Iranian strike in Bahrain killed a Moroccan military contractor. Manama officials stated the contractor was “assisting the local armed forces” at the time of the fatal aerial assault.
