Riyadh/Tehran: In a significant geopolitical shift, Saudi Arabia has openly expressed support for Iran amid escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington, firmly opposing any potential US military action against the Islamic Republic. Saudi Prime Minister and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has made it clear that Saudi airspace will not be used under any circumstances for an attack on Iran.
According to Arab News, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman conveyed this assurance during a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, signalling a notable realignment in regional diplomacy at a time when the Middle East is on the brink of a wider confrontation.
The Saudi Press Agency quoted MBS as saying that Saudi Arabia respects Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and supports all efforts aimed at resolving disputes through dialogue in a manner that enhances regional security and stability.
Iran Welcomes Saudi Stand
President Pezeshkian welcomed Saudi Arabia’s position and expressed gratitude to the Crown Prince for supporting Iran’s sovereignty. Iranian media reported that the president reiterated Tehran’s commitment to international law and its preference for diplomatic processes that prevent war.
Emphasising regional unity, Pezeshkian stated that “solidarity and cohesion among Islamic nations” are essential to ensuring lasting peace, stability, and security in the region.
The high-level exchange comes at a critical moment, with one US aircraft carrier already deployed to the Middle East and former US President Donald Trump announcing that a second aircraft carrier strike group is also moving toward the region, sharply raising the stakes.
Rising Military Tensions
As Washington strengthens its military posture, Iranian forces have conducted fire drills near the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic chokepoint for global oil supplies. The military posturing on both sides has intensified fears of a direct confrontation.
Iranian officials have sharply criticised US threats, accusing Washington of deliberately destabilising the region. In a statement released by the Iranian President’s Office, Pezeshkian condemned what he described as economic pressure, external interference, and hostile actions, asserting that such measures have failed to weaken the resilience or awareness of the Iranian people.
IRGC Issues Warning to Neighbouring States
Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a stern warning to neighbouring countries. According to reports by Al Jazeera and Fars News Agency, IRGC Navy’s Deputy Political Chief Mohammad Akbarzadeh stated that while Iran considers its neighbours as friends, any country that allows its land, airspace, or waters to be used against Iran would be treated as an enemy.
The warning is widely seen as directed at Qatar and Bahrain, where US military assets are stationed. Qatar hosts the largest US military base in the Middle East and was previously targeted by Iran during a regional escalation last year.
Pakistan Also Under Watch
Security analysts suggest that Pakistan’s territory could also be considered for logistical support in any US-led operation against Iran. Although Islamabad has publicly stated it would not permit its land to be used for such purposes, experts argue that Pakistan may find it difficult to refuse under intense US pressure. The IRGC’s warning is being viewed in this broader regional context.
Regional Realignment Underway
Saudi Arabia’s public stance in support of Iran marks a dramatic departure from years of rivalry and underscores growing concern among regional powers about the consequences of a large-scale conflict. As tensions mount, diplomatic engagement among Middle Eastern states appears to be gaining urgency, even as military preparations continue on multiple fronts.
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