Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman, during an unannounced visit to Washington, delivered a message from his brother, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The core of this message was a plea for de-escalation in the ongoing conflict with Iran, with the Saudi leadership emphasizing that prolonging the war carries substantial risks. This message was relayed despite recent joint US-Saudi operations against Iran-backed militias in Iraq.
The recent military action by Saudi Arabia, which included striking the port used by Houthis for Red Sea maritime assaults, was intended to signal that the Kingdom would defend itself against attacks on its civilian infrastructure and that such actions were a red line. It also aimed to convey to Iran's proxies that this is not their fight. However, the underlying message from the Saudis to the US administration was a desire for a peaceful resolution, with sources indicating they believe Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is pushing for escalation.
President Trump had previously stated to Axios that he was ready for "strong military action" if negotiations with Iran failed, but also mentioned pausing U.S. strikes to give diplomacy another chance. He noted that countries mediating and others in the region requested this pause. Trump also highlighted that oil prices dropped and the stock market rose after he held off on attacks, though Brent crude had soared around 27% in the past two weeks due to US-Iran clashes and Houthi actions, closing at $96.78 a barrel on Friday. White House spokesman Steven Cheung reiterated Trump's preference for a diplomatic solution while retaining all options if Iran continues "terrorist activities."
Both Vice President JD Vance and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine voiced concerns about escalating the war, with Vance advocating for a diplomatic solution. Caine also outlined potential negative implications, including the depletion of munitions stockpiles, although Trump claimed the U.S. has ample munitions. The decision to hold off on further escalation came after a White House meeting discussing various options and concerns, reflecting a desire to find an exit from the conflict.
