Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has reportedly urged US President Donald Trump to refrain from launching further military strikes against Iran, amid growing concerns that an escalation in the conflict could destabilise the Gulf region and derail the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 economic transformation programme.
According to reports, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) conveyed his concerns during a recent phone conversation with President Trump. The appeal comes as the US weighs possible strikes on Iranian energy facilities following Iran’s missile attack on a US military base in Jordan and continued disruptions to shipping through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
Vision 2030 at the heart of Saudi concerns
Saudi Arabia fears that any large-scale military confrontation with Iran could severely impact regional security, investment and economic confidence. Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s flagship development strategy, aims to diversify the economy beyond oil by strengthening sectors such as tourism, logistics, renewable energy, technology and global investment.
Military experts believe prolonged instability in the Gulf could discourage foreign investment and delay key infrastructure projects central to the Kingdom’s long-term economic ambitions.
Fears of wider regional conflict
Iran has warned that any fresh attacks by the US or Israel could trigger retaliatory strikes on energy facilities and critical infrastructure across the Gulf. Analysts say such a scenario could threaten global energy supplies and disrupt international trade routes.
Former US defence official Dana Stroul noted that Saudi Arabia had learned from years of conflict in Yemen that military action alone cannot eliminate threats posed by Iran-backed Houthi rebels. She said another prolonged regional conflict could undermine Saudi Arabia’s development priorities.
Diplomatic efforts continue
As tensions remain high, diplomatic engagement has intensified across the region. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has held discussions with officials from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey, warning against any support for further military action.
Meanwhile, Qatar, with support from Oman, is continuing mediation efforts between Tehran and Washington, focusing on reducing tensions and restoring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.