Washington: Defense and intelligence officials from Saudi Arabia and Israel have traveled to the United States this week to engage in discussions concerning Iran, amidst a significant US military buildup in the region. This development highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions as Washington, Riyadh, and Tel Aviv seek to navigate the complex dynamics involving Tehran.
According to Anadolu Agency, Major General Shlomi Binder, head of Israel's Military Intelligence Directorate, held a series of high-level consultations on Tuesday and Wednesday with top officials at the Pentagon, the CIA, and the White House. These discussions were reportedly centered on delivering specific intelligence requested by the Trump administration, including potential strike targets within Iran.
In parallel, Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met with key figures in the US administration on Thursday, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and US President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff. The meetings focused on reviewing strategic bilateral ties, cooperation, and efforts to advance regional and global peace and stability. Bin Salman emphasized the importance of diplomatic avenues during his ongoing discussions, which are set to continue on Friday with Pentagon officials.
The Saudi Defense Ministry confirmed that bin Salman and his delegation arrived in Washington, DC, to discuss bilateral relations and address topics of common interest. Despite serving as a communication channel between Washington and Tehran, Saudi Arabia stated it would not permit the US to use its airspace for an attack.
Amidst these diplomatic maneuvers, the arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group has finalized a naval "armada" that President Trump has claimed is larger than the force previously deployed to Venezuela. A US official noted that preparations are underway as the president approaches a decision on potential military action.
Neither the US nor Israel have commented on the Axios report detailing these developments. President Trump has urged Iran to negotiate on its nuclear program, warning of severe consequences if a deal is not reached. The US bombed three Iranian nuclear sites last June during a conflict with Israel, amid ongoing concerns about Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.
These diplomatic and military developments occur against the backdrop of recent unrest and protests in Iran, driven by deteriorating economic conditions and a sharp depreciation in the local currency.
*Contributions by Ahmet Salih Alacaci from Washington, DC*