Saudi Arabia has directly informed Iran that it will not permit its territory or airspace to be used for any military strike on Wednesday.
This assurance comes amidst heightened tensions, with the United States issuing threats of possible military action in response to Tehran’s ongoing crackdown on domestic protests. Iran has, in turn, vowed to target US military and shipping assets if attacked.
A source with close ties to the Saudi military confirmed AFP, stating, “Saudi Arabia has informed Tehran directly that it will not be part of any military action taken against it, and that its territory and airspace will not be used for that purpose.”
A second source close to the Saudi government corroborated this message had been delivered to Iranian officials.
US maintains substantial military assets across the Gulf region, including within Saudi Arabia. Concurrently, the US embassy in Riyadh has issued an advisory urging its personnel to exercise “increased caution.”
Prior to this, Qatar announced the temporary removal of some personnel from the strategic Al Udeid Air Base, which hosts a major US military presence.
Qatar’s International Media Office stated the measure was a precaution “in response to current regional tensions,” emphasising that the nation “continues to implement all necessary measures to safeguard the security and safety of its citizens and residents as a top priority.”
The statement added that steps are underway to protect critical infrastructure and military facilities.
US President Donald Trump delivered a stark warning to Iranian authorities on Tuesday, stating the US would react forcefully if executions of protesters commenced. “We will take very strong action if they do such a thing,” he told CBS News.
In a later video clip, he added, “When they start killing thousands of people – and now you’re telling me about hanging. We’ll see how that’s going to work out for them.”
During a speech in Michigan, President Trump reiterated a message of support for the Iranian protesters, declaring that “help is on its way.” He also commented on the uncertain casualty figures, noting, “I hear numbers – look, one death is too much – but I hear much lower numbers, and then I hear much higher numbers.”
Upon his return to Washington, the President indicated he would soon receive a comprehensive briefing, telling reporters, “The killing looks like it’s significant, but we don’t know yet for certain. I’ll know within 20 minutes – and we’ll act accordingly.”
The collective statements and manoeuvres underscore a volatile situation in the Gulf, where diplomatic assurances from regional powers like Saudi Arabia are being carefully weighed against the potential for a sharp military escalation.
