Saudi officials visit Washington for separate discussions on Iran
Consultations follow intelligence briefings and diplomatic outreach as Washington assesses risks of confrontation
By Abdullahi Yusuf
Israeli and Saudi officials are holding separate consultations in Washington this week regarding Iran, according to a report.
While Israel is reportedly sharing intelligence on potential targets, Saudi Arabia is emphasizing a diplomatic solution to avert war.
According to an Axios report citing American sources, the visits highlight differing regional approaches to the escalating crisis, with Israel focusing on military planning and Saudi Arabia urging diplomacy.
Israeli military intelligence chief General Shlomi Binder held consultations on Tuesday and Wednesday with top officials at the Pentagon, the CIA and the White House.
The meetings reportedly centered on providing specific intelligence requested by the Trump administration, including information on potential strike targets within Iran.
This suggests advanced operational planning is underway.
Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman is scheduled to meet with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pentagon officials on Thursday and Friday.
The Saudi delegation is expected to emphasize diplomatic avenues to de-escalate tensions.
Riyadh, which has acted as a mediator between Washington and Tehran, has previously stated it would not permit U.S. forces to use its airspace for an attack on Iran.
The diplomatic activity coincides with the arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, part of a naval “armada” referenced by President Donald Trump.
A U.S. official indicated the current directive is to prepare, suggesting a decision on military action is imminent.
Trump has warned Iran to agree to a nuclear deal or face an attack “far worse” than previous strikes.
The situation remains volatile, with Iran facing internal economic protests and denying Western accusations that its nuclear program is for weaponization.
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