Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, two key U.S. allies in the Middle East, have said they will not assist in any U.S. military action against Iran, as President Trump warns of potential strikes.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman confirmed Tuesday that he would not allow his country’s airspace or territory to be used in any attack on Iran, following a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.
The crown prince called on Tehran and Washington to resolve their issues through diplomacy, adding that Saudi Arabia would also respect the sovereignty of the Islamic republic.
The announcement followed a similar declaration from the UAE on Monday. The UAE Foreign Ministry said it would not allow any of its territory to be used as a staging ground for “hostile military actions” against Iran and ruled out providing logistical support.
The announcements mark a significant shift in Gulf policy toward the U.S. Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE have decades-long security agreements with the U.S., host several military bases and frequently collaborate with Washington in counterterrorism operations in the region.
However, both nations reportedly fear being dragged into a wider regional war that a U.S. military strike on Iran could initiate. Iran has signaled that any U.S. attack would be met with a comprehensive response and would likely include attacking U.S. bases in Gulf nations.
SEE ALSO: Trump urges Iran to deal on nuclear ambitions, or else U.S. fleet will act with ‘speed and violence’
Earlier this month, several U.S. partners in the Middle East, including Egypt, Turkey and Israel, urged Washington to reconsider any plans to attack Iran, saying that it would spread far beyond the borders of the Islamic republic.
The announcements could have significant strategic consequences for the U.S. as Mr. Trump weighs military action against Tehran for its crackdown on nationwide protests.
Mr. Trump warned Saturday of an “armada” approaching Iran that would be capable of launching strikes. Reports indicate that the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group had entered the waters south of Iran.
Mr. Trump had threatened to launch strikes on Iran earlier this month after learning of the extent of Tehran’s crackdown on protesters. He specifically threatened intervention after learning that Iran was preparing to execute arrested protesters. But days later, Mr. Trump said Iran had canceled the executions, and threats of U.S. military action subsided.
