Saudi Arabia to bar use of its territory for any attack on Iran

Saudi Arabia will not permit its airspace or territory to be used for any military action targeting Iran.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman affirmed his country's respect for Iran's sovereignty during a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on 27/1. He supported efforts to resolve disagreements through dialogue to enhance regional security and stability.

Crown Prince Mohammed stressed that Saudi Arabia "will not allow its airspace or territory to be used in any military action" against Iran. This commitment aligns with Saudi Arabia's general policy of not allowing its national territory to be used "in any attack by any party, regardless of the target".

President Pezeshkian thanked Saudi Arabia for its firm stance in respecting Iran's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also acknowledged the efforts to promote regional security and stability.

Tehran welcomes all reconciliation processes that prevent war, consistent with international law, President Pezeshkian said. He asserted that unity among Islamic nations can ensure lasting security, stability, and peace in the Middle East.

Two Saudi fighter jets over the capital Riyadh, escorting US President Donald Trump's special plane on 13/5/2025. Reuters

The phone call between the two leaders occurred after US President Donald Trump repeatedly threatened to attack Iran in connection with protest movements in the Middle Eastern country.

Last week, the US leader announced the deployment of a fleet toward Iran, expressing hope that military action would not be necessary. The US government confirmed that all options, including military action, remain under consideration.

Iranian officials warned that any US attack would face a swift and comprehensive response. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated that the consequences of an attack on his country could affect the entire region.

"Neighboring countries are Iran's friends. But if their territory, airspace, or waters are used against Iran, they will be considered hostile," warned Mohammad Akbarzadeh, Deputy Head of Political Affairs for the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), on 27/1.