An Iranian drone attack on the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia last month caused significantly more damage than previously acknowledged by authorities in the Kingdom and also struck a Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) facility within the compound, according to a latest report by The Wall Street Journal, citing current and former American officials.


How Iran Hit CIA Station Inside US Embassy in Saudi Arabia

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on Saturday rejected the accusations of a drone strike on the US embassy in Saudi Arabia. It formally accused Israel of carrying out a false flag operation in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on March 3, 2026, at the beginning of the war. In a statement issued by the IRGC on April 4, 2024, it suggested that the attack had been carried out by the “zionists”. The statement came as a response to the Wall Street Journal on April 3, which suggested that the attack at the US embassy in Saudi Arabia caused more damage than previously anticipated.&nbsp;“I can categorically say that some of the attacks were not carried out by us (Iran),” reported Middle East Eye, citing a Foreign Ministry Official. According to the report, Israel was behind the attack in Saudi Arabia and at least one attack in Oman. But the report didn't specify which targets he was referring to.The WSJ report claimed that an Iranian drone evaded the air defence system guarding the embassy before hitting the compound, and a second drone hit the facility in a similar breach. &nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-war-iran-challenges-us-air-dominance-military-assets-1775295824283">THAAD, E-3 Sentry, F-35, F-15, F-16, KC-135: How Iran is busting the myth of US technical and aerial supremacy?</a>“There's been a complete blackout on the actual amount of damage done to these places,” said Bernard Hudson, a former CIA counterterrorism chief, regarding US embassies and bases targeted by Iran. “That feeds suspicions that a lot more damage may have actually happened.”According to IRGC, it has indeed struck targets in Gulf states and across the region, especially those which have played a role in the US-Israeli operations, but they have clearly identified targets and the US embassy in Riyadh was not one of them.&nbsp;IRGC further added that they “must remain vigilant against provocations from the American–Zionist current,” to prevent escalation in the region. Earlier, Iran denied a previous attack on March 30 at a Kuwait power and desalination plant, which was attributed to it. The attack killed an Indian national; Iran blamed Israel for it. It also denied targeting Saudi Aramco's Ras Tanura refinery in early March. The Iranian military claimed that the Israeli false flag was aimed at distracting the regional countries from the civilian targeting in the region. “Aramco facilities have not been among the targets of Iranian attacks so far," said an Iranian military source speaking to Tasnim News Agency. &nbsp;

Iran’s IRGC denies targeting the US embassy in Saudi Arabia, alleging Israel carried out a false flag drone strike in Riyadh as tensions escalate in the West Asia conflict.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on Saturday rejected the accusations of a drone strike on the US embassy in Saudi Arabia. It formally accused Israel of carrying out a false flag operation in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on March 3, 2026, at the beginning of the war. In a statement issued by the IRGC on April 4, 2024, it suggested that the attack had been carried out by the “zionists”. The statement came as a response to the Wall Street Journal on April 3, which suggested that the attack at the US embassy in Saudi Arabia caused more damage than previously anticipated. “I can categorically say that some of the attacks were not carried out by us (Iran),” reported Middle East Eye, citing a Foreign Ministry Official. According to the report, Israel was behind the attack in Saudi Arabia and at least one attack in Oman. But the report didn't specify which targets he was referring to. The WSJ report claimed that an Iranian drone evaded the air defence system guarding the embassy before hitting the compound, and a second drone hit the facility in a similar breach. Also Read: THAAD, E-3 Sentry, F-35, F-15, F-16, KC-135: How Iran is busting the myth of US technical and aerial supremacy? “There's been a complete blackout on the actual amount of damage done to these places,” said Bernard Hudson, a former CIA counterterrorism chief, regarding US embassies and bases targeted by Iran. “That feeds suspicions that a lot more damage may have actually happened.” According to IRGC, it has indeed struck targets in Gulf states and across the region, especially those which have played a role in the US-Israeli operations, but they have clearly identified targets and the US embassy in Riyadh was not one of them. IRGC further added that they “must remain vigilant against provocations from the American–Zionist current,” to prevent escalation in the region. Earlier, Iran denied a previous attack on March 30 at a Kuwait power and desalination plant, which was attributed to it. The attack killed an Indian national; Iran blamed Israel for it. It also denied targeting Saudi Aramco's Ras Tanura refinery in early March. The Iranian military claimed that the Israeli false flag was aimed at distracting the regional countries from the civilian targeting in the region. “Aramco facilities have not been among the targets of Iranian attacks so far," said an Iranian military source speaking to Tasnim News Agency.

Iran’s IRGC denies targeting the US embassy in Saudi Arabia, alleging Israel carried out a false flag drone strike in Riyadh as tensions escalate in the West Asia conflict.

Iran denies drone strike on US embassy in Saudi Arabia, accuses Israel of ‘false flag’ operation

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia ‌Meloni flew to Saudi Arabia on Friday for a previously unannounced trip that will also include meetings in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, a government official said.
Meloni travelled to Jeddah for the first visit by a ​European Union leader to Saudi Arabia since the outbreak of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran ​in February and was due to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman later ⁠in the day, the official said.

Energy Security Drives Italian PM Meloni's Two-day Gulf Visit

Saudi Arabia and India pushed for the release of a key climate report in 2019, highlighting divisions among countries over how scientific findings on emissions and warming should be presented. The episode underscored tensions between developing economies and global climate policy expectations, as nations balanced environmental commitments with economic priorities.


Saudi, India Push for Report's Release in 2019 

Gulf countries, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are asking the US President Donald Trump to continue its offensive operation against Tehran until its military capability is completely reduced. According to them, the military capability of Iran has not been weakened enough by the month-long US-led bombing. According to AP reports, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Bahrain have urged Trump in private conversations to continue the bombing of Iran until regime change or a significant change in Iran's behaviour. According to the US's traditional allies, this offers a historic opportunity to cripple the Clerical rule of Iran. The report suggests that these officials spoke in condition of anonymity.&nbsp;&nbsp;While Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, de facto leader of Saudi Arabia, is seeking to decrease Iran's ballistic missile capability, the clerical regime. It serves the interests of the Kingdom in the region. On the other hand, it remains wary of the attacks on its energy infrastructure. “Iran respects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and considers it a brotherly nation,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote on X, along with a picture of a damaged American aircraft at a Saudi air base. According to the reports The UAE is perhaps the most hawkish country that is pushing for a ground invasion; Kuwait and Bahrain also favour these options.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mohamad-safa-un-resignation-nuclear-threat-iran-allegations-1774872383427">‘Nuclear winter’ warning: UN diplomat steps down, cites safety concerns</a><h2>Gulf countries are hesitant about the US's capability to defend the empire</h2>Interestingly, Gulf Countries, at the start of the US-Israel strike on Iran, had complained about the lack of information and time for preparations. They also suggested that the US had overlooked the warnings about how a destabilisation in the region could lead to devastating consequences.&nbsp;The US is in a situation where it has an off-ramp now, and many in the Trump administration are pushing for it. While Trump himself is sending out dubious messages, Iran's leadership and military capability are “decimated”, and it is willing to settle. At the same time, he is also threatening to attack the country if it does not agree on a deal. Trump is finding it hard to rally support domestically, as almost 3000 are dead and oil prices have reached around $115 per barrel.None of the Gulf states wanted the war with Iran in the first place. Just days before it began, they were flying officials to Washington in a last-ditched attempt to prevent it. Something that was clearly ignored. After the bombing began, reports emerged that Qatar's stockpile of Patriot interceptor missiles could last as little as 4 days. Yet, America refused to help restock them“Saudi Arabia’s fighting back hard. Qatar is fighting back. UAE is fighting back. Kuwait’s fighting back. Bahrain’s fighting back,” said Trump on Sunday aboard Air Force One. Gulf countries are stuck in a situation where they want to confront the Clerical Government in Iran, but they are not confident about the US empire and its commitment to defending them. Meanwhile, the Gulf states are unified in calling for a de-escalation of the Middle East war, says Qatar, as Tehran launched new strikes against its neighbours. "Our understanding is that there is a very unified position in the Gulf on calling for the de-escalation and an end to the war," Qatar's foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari told a regular news briefing.<h2>&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Gulf allies privately urge Donald Trump to continue bombing Iran, even as fears over regional instability and oil surge grow.

Gulf countries, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are asking the US President Donald Trump to continue its offensive operation against Tehran until its military capability is completely reduced. According to them, the military capability of Iran has not been weakened enough by the month-long US-led bombing. According to AP reports, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Bahrain have urged Trump in private conversations to continue the bombing of Iran until regime change or a significant change in Iran's behaviour. According to the US's traditional allies, this offers a historic opportunity to cripple the Clerical rule of Iran. The report suggests that these officials spoke in condition of anonymity. While Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, de facto leader of Saudi Arabia, is seeking to decrease Iran's ballistic missile capability, the clerical regime. It serves the interests of the Kingdom in the region. On the other hand, it remains wary of the attacks on its energy infrastructure. “Iran respects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and considers it a brotherly nation,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote on X, along with a picture of a damaged American aircraft at a Saudi air base. According to the reports The UAE is perhaps the most hawkish country that is pushing for a ground invasion; Kuwait and Bahrain also favour these options. Also Read: ‘Nuclear winter’ warning: UN diplomat steps down, cites safety concerns Gulf countries are hesitant about the US's capability to defend the empire Interestingly, Gulf Countries, at the start of the US-Israel strike on Iran, had complained about the lack of information and time for preparations. They also suggested that the US had overlooked the warnings about how a destabilisation in the region could lead to devastating consequences. The US is in a situation where it has an off-ramp now, and many in the Trump administration are pushing for it. While Trump himself is sending out dubious messages, Iran's leadership and military capability are “decimated”, and it is willing to settle. At the same time, he is also threatening to attack the country if it does not agree on a deal. Trump is finding it hard to rally support domestically, as almost 3000 are dead and oil prices have reached around $115 per barrel. None of the Gulf states wanted the war with Iran in the first place. Just days before it began, they were flying officials to Washington in a last-ditched attempt to prevent it. Something that was clearly ignored. After the bombing began, reports emerged that Qatar's stockpile of Patriot interceptor missiles could last as little as 4 days. Yet, America refused to help restock them “Saudi Arabia’s fighting back hard. Qatar is fighting back. UAE is fighting back. Kuwait’s fighting back. Bahrain’s fighting back,” said Trump on Sunday aboard Air Force One. Gulf countries are stuck in a situation where they want to confront the Clerical Government in Iran, but they are not confident about the US empire and its commitment to defending them. Meanwhile, the Gulf states are unified in calling for a de-escalation of the Middle East war, says Qatar, as Tehran launched new strikes against its neighbours. "Our understanding is that there is a very unified position in the Gulf on calling for the de-escalation and an end to the war," Qatar's foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari told a regular news briefing.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Gulf allies privately urge Donald Trump to continue bombing Iran, even as fears over regional instability and oil surge grow.

Gulf Nations urge Donald Trump to continue Iran offensive amid war concerns-Report

While U.S. has claimed to have achieved military success in Iran, its losses are mounting. Iran has claimed to have destroyed America's premier E-3 Sentry aircraft during its recent attack on Saudi Arabia's Prince Sultan airbase. As per reports, U.S. losses in the first three weeks of the war alone are estimated at $2.9 billion.


US-Iran War | Blind in Battle: How US Is Losing Its Eyes and Ears in West Asia War

Pakistan has said it is ready to host talks between the United States and Iran as part of efforts to end the ongoing conflict. Officials stated Islamabad would be “honoured” to facilitate negotiations in the coming days, though participation from both sides remains unconfirmed.

The announcement came as top diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt gathered in Islamabad for high-level discussions focused on de-escalation and a possible diplomatic pathway forward.

Talks have centred on reducing tensions, reopening key trade routes like the Strait of Hormuz, and exploring options for direct or indirect dialogue between Washington and Tehran.

Iran-US Talks: Diplomats From Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey Converge in Islamabad

Russia took satellite images of a U.S. air base in Saudi Arabia three times in the days before Iran attacked the site and wounded American troops, according to a summary of Ukrainian intelligence shared with NBC News by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

In an interview in the Gulf nation of Qatar on Saturday, Zelenskyy said he was “100%” confident Russia was sharing such intelligence with Iran to help target U.S. forces across the Middle East.

Ukraine: Russia Took Satellite Images of US Airbase in Saudi Arabia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said Kyiv is working on an agreement to secure additional diesel supplies to support the country’s energy needs amid the ongoing war and infrastructure challenges. Diesel remains critical for powering transportation networks, emergency services, and backup electricity generation across Ukraine.


Zelensky: Working on Agreement for Supply of Diesel to Ukraine

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to his Saudi Arabian counterpart and Crown Price HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Saturday and discussed the war in West Asia which has been going on for over a month.

Modi said that during the call, he reiterated that India condemns attacks on energy infrastructure of the West Asia region.

“Spoke with Crown Prince and PM of Saudi Arabia, HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman and discussed the ongoing conflict in West Asia. I reiterated India’s condemnation of attacks on regional energy infrastructure,” Modi wrote in a post on X.

PM Modi, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Discuss Iran War Developments

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that Ukraine has signed a deal with Saudi Arabia to share its drone defence expertise and technology and help the country tackle multiple aerial attacks from Iran. Zelensky said Saudi Arabia has been facing similar ballistic missile and drone attacks from Iran that Ukraine had been resisting from Russia over the last four years.&nbsp;“We are ready to share our expertise and systems with Saudi Arabia and to work together to strengthen the protection of lives,” Zelensky said in a post on X.&nbsp;Kyiv is leveraging its expertise in downing Russian drones to help Gulf nations, which are being attacked with the same kind of Iranian-designed Shahed drones that Russia fires on Ukraine.&nbsp;Ukraine has been using a mix of cheap drone interceptors, electronic jamming tools, and anti-aircraft guns to down Russian drones fired at its cities for over four years now. It also touts its anti-drone defences as the best in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-slaughtered-in-cold-blood-iran-fm-araghchi-accuses-us-of-war-crimes-over-minab-school-bombing-calls-it-calculated-assault-1774604612770">‘Slaughtered in cold blood’: Iran FM Araghchi accuses US of ‘war crimes’ over Minab school bombing, calls it ‘calculated assault’</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Looking for assistance in defending Ukraine in exchange’: Zelensky</h2>&nbsp;Zelensky said that in exchange he would be looking for assistance in defending Ukraine against the ongoing Russian invasion.&nbsp;“We would like Middle Eastern states to also give us an opportunity to strengthen ourselves. They have certain air defence missiles of which we don’t have enough. That’s what we’d like to reach a deal on,” he said in an interview with the French newspaper Le Monde.&nbsp;“Saudi Arabia also has capabilities that are of interest to Ukraine, and this cooperation can be mutually beneficial,” Zelensky said.&nbsp;The deal is not only about interceptors as such but about building a system, integrating it with other air defence components, Ukrainian experience in its use, AI, and all the other elements of data analysis needed to counter Shaheds and other drones, said a Ukrainian official seeking anonymity.&nbsp;During his visit to Saudi Arabia, Zelensky also met with Ukrainian anti-drone experts deployed to the country facing drone and missile attacks from Tehran in retaliation for the US and Israel strikes on Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-situation-dynamic-petrol-diesel-prices-to-be-reviewed-every-15-days-says-govt-1774609798246">‘Situation dynamic’: Petrol, diesel prices to be reviewed every 15 days, says govt</a><h2>‘Approached by Gulf states for help,’ say Ukrainian drone companies</h2>&nbsp;As per reports, several Ukrainian drone companies have been approached by Gulf states for help but have not yet been given the green light by the government in Kyiv.&nbsp;Representatives of Ukrainian companies that make anti-drone electronic warfare systems said they had been approached by Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates and were told to discuss this with the Ukrainian government first.&nbsp;Ukraine has proposed swapping its interceptors for vastly more expensive air defence missiles that Gulf countries are using to down Iranian drones. Ukraine says it needs more of them to fend off Russian missile attacks.

Ukraine has been using a mix of cheap drone interceptors, electronic jamming tools, and anti-aircraft guns to down Russian drones fired at its cities for over four years now. Kyiv also touts its anti-drone defences as the best in the world.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that Ukraine has signed a deal with Saudi Arabia to share its drone defence expertise and technology and help the country tackle multiple aerial attacks from Iran. Zelensky said Saudi Arabia has been facing similar ballistic missile and drone attacks from Iran that Ukraine had been resisting from Russia over the last four years. “We are ready to share our expertise and systems with Saudi Arabia and to work together to strengthen the protection of lives,” Zelensky said in a post on X. Kyiv is leveraging its expertise in downing Russian drones to help Gulf nations, which are being attacked with the same kind of Iranian-designed Shahed drones that Russia fires on Ukraine. Ukraine has been using a mix of cheap drone interceptors, electronic jamming tools, and anti-aircraft guns to down Russian drones fired at its cities for over four years now. It also touts its anti-drone defences as the best in the world. Also Read: ‘Slaughtered in cold blood’: Iran FM Araghchi accuses US of ‘war crimes’ over Minab school bombing, calls it ‘calculated assault’ ‘Looking for assistance in defending Ukraine in exchange’: Zelensky Zelensky said that in exchange he would be looking for assistance in defending Ukraine against the ongoing Russian invasion. “We would like Middle Eastern states to also give us an opportunity to strengthen ourselves. They have certain air defence missiles of which we don’t have enough. That’s what we’d like to reach a deal on,” he said in an interview with the French newspaper Le Monde. “Saudi Arabia also has capabilities that are of interest to Ukraine, and this cooperation can be mutually beneficial,” Zelensky said. The deal is not only about interceptors as such but about building a system, integrating it with other air defence components, Ukrainian experience in its use, AI, and all the other elements of data analysis needed to counter Shaheds and other drones, said a Ukrainian official seeking anonymity. During his visit to Saudi Arabia, Zelensky also met with Ukrainian anti-drone experts deployed to the country facing drone and missile attacks from Tehran in retaliation for the US and Israel strikes on Iran. Also Read: ‘Situation dynamic’: Petrol, diesel prices to be reviewed every 15 days, says govt ‘Approached by Gulf states for help,’ say Ukrainian drone companies As per reports, several Ukrainian drone companies have been approached by Gulf states for help but have not yet been given the green light by the government in Kyiv. Representatives of Ukrainian companies that make anti-drone electronic warfare systems said they had been approached by Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates and were told to discuss this with the Ukrainian government first. Ukraine has proposed swapping its interceptors for vastly more expensive air defence missiles that Gulf countries are using to down Iranian drones. Ukraine says it needs more of them to fend off Russian missile attacks.

Ukraine has been using a mix of cheap drone interceptors, electronic jamming tools, and anti-aircraft guns to down Russian drones fired at its cities for over four years now. Kyiv also touts its anti-drone defences as the best in the world.

Ukraine signs air defence deal with Saudi Arabia, offers its drone expertise

The Gulf Countries, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, were hosting a range of US operations while politically pretending to be neutral. As US President Donald Trump is claiming that a ceasefire has been agreed with the Iranian leadership and Iran is repeatedly denying the ceasefire, reports are suggesting that the Gulf monarchies are edging towards participating in the conflict.&nbsp;According to reports from the Wall Street Journal, Saudi Arabia has opened up its King Fahad air base, a supposed shift from its position of not letting US forces use its airspace and infrastructure against Iran. The position was fractured following the US targeting of the energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has already expelled the Iranian military attaché and embassy staff on March 21, 2026. The WSJ reported that one source suggested that the Saudi prince Mohammed bin Salman is weighing military options to join the war. Simultaneously, the UAE has suggested that it has closed the Iranian institutions, such as the Iranian Hospital and the Iranian Club, and rendered the hospital's phone lines, WhatsApp channel, and website.Also Read: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-alive-viral-video-palm-beach-pete-florida-1774268590129">Who is Palm Beach Pete? Jeffrey Epstein look-alike who used to party with him</a>However IRGC have explicitly denied the claims and asserted that Saudi Arabian bases have been used for logistical support. It further suggested that Al-Kharj and Prince Sultan Air Base have been a key hub for “US aggressors' deployments and air operations.” There was video evidence verified by ‘Storyful’ of using some ground-based missiles from Bahrain towards Iran. Eventhough the US has not openly confirmed these reports and let the Gulf countries characterise their roles in the war. But there were suggestions at the beginning of the war that the US attack on Iran was pursued by both Saudi Arabia and Israel. While Israel's pursuit was overt, Saudi Arabia's pursuit was through a private diplomatic channel.&nbsp;<h2>Iran wants to claim toll at Hormuz</h2>The WSJ report further claims that the Gulf leaders, in private conversation with the US has urged to destroy Iranian military capacity before agreeing to any ceasefire. However, Iran remains firm and is emerging as a stronger force in the region. It has attacked ship transit while allowing some to pass. It now wants a role in the governing of the Strait of Hormuz, and proposed charging transit fees through the strait, similar to the Suez Canal toll system of Egypt. According to a US analyst, Gregory Gause, at the Middle East Institute in Washington, Gulf rulers are trapped in a situation where they want a military engagement with Iran but remains weary if Washington were to retreat, the Gulf security infrastructure will collapse.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia and the UAE signal deeper involvement in the Iran conflict as Trump claims a ceasefire, Iran denies it, and tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Gulf Countries, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, were hosting a range of US operations while politically pretending to be neutral. As US President Donald Trump is claiming that a ceasefire has been agreed with the Iranian leadership and Iran is repeatedly denying the ceasefire, reports are suggesting that the Gulf monarchies are edging towards participating in the conflict. According to reports from the Wall Street Journal, Saudi Arabia has opened up its King Fahad air base, a supposed shift from its position of not letting US forces use its airspace and infrastructure against Iran. The position was fractured following the US targeting of the energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has already expelled the Iranian military attaché and embassy staff on March 21, 2026. The WSJ reported that one source suggested that the Saudi prince Mohammed bin Salman is weighing military options to join the war. Simultaneously, the UAE has suggested that it has closed the Iranian institutions, such as the Iranian Hospital and the Iranian Club, and rendered the hospital's phone lines, WhatsApp channel, and website. Also Read: Who is Palm Beach Pete? Jeffrey Epstein look-alike who used to party with him However IRGC have explicitly denied the claims and asserted that Saudi Arabian bases have been used for logistical support. It further suggested that Al-Kharj and Prince Sultan Air Base have been a key hub for “US aggressors' deployments and air operations.” There was video evidence verified by ‘Storyful’ of using some ground-based missiles from Bahrain towards Iran. Eventhough the US has not openly confirmed these reports and let the Gulf countries characterise their roles in the war. But there were suggestions at the beginning of the war that the US attack on Iran was pursued by both Saudi Arabia and Israel. While Israel's pursuit was overt, Saudi Arabia's pursuit was through a private diplomatic channel. Iran wants to claim toll at Hormuz The WSJ report further claims that the Gulf leaders, in private conversation with the US has urged to destroy Iranian military capacity before agreeing to any ceasefire. However, Iran remains firm and is emerging as a stronger force in the region. It has attacked ship transit while allowing some to pass. It now wants a role in the governing of the Strait of Hormuz, and proposed charging transit fees through the strait, similar to the Suez Canal toll system of Egypt. According to a US analyst, Gregory Gause, at the Middle East Institute in Washington, Gulf rulers are trapped in a situation where they want a military engagement with Iran but remains weary if Washington were to retreat, the Gulf security infrastructure will collapse.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE signal deeper involvement in the Iran conflict as Trump claims a ceasefire, Iran denies it, and tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz.

Saudi Arabia, UAE to join Iran war as ceasefire claims remain disputed

Riyadh has ordered an Iranian diplomat and members of the diplomatic team to leave the country within 24 hours, signalling a sharp escalation in tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran amid the widening regional conflict. The move reflects growing diplomatic strain across West Asia as geopolitical rivalries intensify alongside the ongoing war dynamics in the region.


Riyadh Tells Iranian Diplomat, Team Members to Leave in 24 Hours

Asia refiners have asked Saudi Arabia to change the way it prices crude, after the West Asia war has disrupted the traditional system. A Bloomberg report quoting traders showed the talks with Saudi Aramco were ongoing. But trades said the discussions may now be successful.


Saudi Arabia Faces Calls from Asian Buyers to Link Oil Prices to Brent 

Asian Buyers Ask Saudi to Change Oil Pricing Peg to Brent 

Amid the US‑Israel war with Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE appear to be edging closer to the US‑Israel axis, reacting to repeated Iranian strikes on Gulf energy hubs and infrastructure. Gulf leaders have signalled stronger alignment with Washington and Tel Aviv, with Saudi Arabia mulling military support and the UAE tightening defence cooperation amid heightened threats.


US-Iran War: Saudi Weighs to Open Up TAIF Airbase To US 

Amid the escalating US-Israel war with Iran, Saudi Arabia says it has faced 575 Iranian drone strikes since the conflict intensified, highlighting the widening regional impact of the war. Riyadh stated that most of the drones were intercepted by its air-defence systems, but the attacks targeted key infrastructure and security sites, raising concerns about regional stability and energy security.


US-Israel War with Iran: Saudi Arabia Says Country Has Seen 575 Iranian Drone Strikes

A new front appears to be opening in the ongoing war in West Asia. The Houthis said they are prepared to respond militarily to ongoing developments in the region, making it clear that all options at the military level are possible. This could draw the Red Sea into the war, turning American and Saudi Arabian assets in the region into even more prominent targets.


US-Iran War: Houthis Ready to Hit Saudi, US In Battle for Red Sea

The Red Sea cannot fully replace the Strait of Hormuz as a global oil route due to severe capacity limits and security risks, serving only as a temporary partial workaround. While Saudi Arabia's Petroline can divert some exports to the Red Sea, its capacity is roughly 3–7 million barrels/day—far less than the 18–21 million barrels/day that routinely flow through the Strait of Hormuz. 


Can Red Sea Replace Strait of Hormuz: Capacity vs Reality

A new report warns that global oil prices could surge to $180 per barrel if disruptions in the Gulf persist amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict. The warning comes as supply risks intensify around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil chokepoint. In response, Saudi Arabia is ramping up exports through the Red Sea route, aiming to bypass vulnerable Gulf shipping lanes and stabilise supply.


Report: Saudi Flags $180 Oil if Disruption Extends; Saudi Boosts Exports Via Red Sea Route 

Iran has launched a wave of missile strikes across multiple Gulf nations in what officials describe as retaliation for earlier U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iranian territory. Reports confirm missile activity and air defense interceptions in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.


Saudi Arabia Intercepts Drones in Country's East; Missile Debris Sparks Fire in Bahrain

The US-Iran war is entering a dangerous new phase as Iran warns it will strike energy infrastructure across West Asia if its own facilities continue to be targeted. The threat follows attacks on Iran’s key gas sites, including the vital South Pars field, triggering fears of a full-scale energy war.

Iran has specifically warned Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, that their oil and gas facilities could become targets. With retaliatory strikes already hitting major energy hubs and disrupting supply, global oil and gas markets are on edge.

US-Iran War | Iran: Will Hit West Asia's Energy Infra If Our Facilities Are Hit

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Emirati President Mohamed bin Zayed discussed Iran’s retaliatory strikes on the Gulf in their second call since a public row in late December.

According to a statement published by Emirati news agency WAM, the leaders discussed the continued and blatant Iranian attacks targeting countries in the region.

UAE, Saudi Leaders Hold Second Phone Call To Discuss Retaliatory Strikes on the Gulf 

The United States is preparing to deploy additional Marines to help secure the Strait of Hormuz as tensions in the region continue to escalate.


US-Iran War | Reports: Iranian Strikes Damage Five US Planes in Saudi Arabia

Iran struck and damaged five US Air Force refuelling planes on the ground at Saudi Arabia’s Prince Sultan Air Base, The Wall Street Journal reported, in what would mark a major escalation in the Middle East conflict involving the United States-Israel and the Islamic Republic.


Amid the expanding US‑Iran War, Iran has launched multiple missile and drone attacks targeting key oil infrastructure and strategic locations across the Gulf, including Saudi oil sites and cities in the United Arab Emirates.


US-Iran War: Iran Launches Missiles, Drones at Saudi Oil Sites & UAE Cities 

Amid the escalating US-Israel war with Iran, Tehran has claimed a new wave of missile and drone attacks targeting Jordan and Saudi Arabia, raising fears of a wider regional conflict. Iranian officials say the strikes are part of retaliatory operations against countries hosting or supporting U.S. military assets in the region. Air defence systems in both countries reportedly intercepted several incoming projectiles.


US-Iran War: Iran Claims New Wave of Attacks on Jordan And Saudi Arabia 

Senator Lindsey Graham on Monday questioned whether the United States should honor a long-sought defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, saying the kingdom’s refusal to join military operations against Iran made the partnership difficult to justify given that Americans were dying in a war Graham himself helped push the Trump administration to start.



US-Iran War: US Senator Warns Saudi of Consequences For Not Joining War

Saudi Arabia’s Aramco , ​the world’s top oil exporter, said ⁠on Tuesday (March 10, 2026) that there would be “catastrophic consequences” for the world’s oil markets if the Iran war continues to disrupt ‌shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.


Aramco Warns of Severe Oil Impact if Strait of Hormuz Shipping Halt Continues |

Saudi Arabia has announced a significant reduction in its oil output, cutting production by approximately 2 million to 2.5 million barrels per day, a move expected to tighten global supply and push crude prices higher. Officials said the decision aims to stabilise markets amid ongoing volatility in the Middle East and broader geopolitical tensions affecting energy flows. The cut is one of the largest by a major producer in recent years and could have wide‑ranging effects on global energy markets and prices.


Saudi Arabia Cuts Oil Output Between 2 MN & 2.5 Barrels Per Day

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Zelensky: Working on Agreement for Supply of Diesel to Ukraine

PM Modi, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Discuss Iran War Developments

Ukraine signs air defence deal with Saudi Arabia, offers its drone expertise

Saudi Arabia, UAE to join Iran war as ceasefire claims remain disputed

Riyadh Tells Iranian Diplomat, Team Members to Leave in 24 Hours

Saudi Arabia Faces Calls from Asian Buyers to Link Oil Prices to Brent

Asian Buyers Ask Saudi to Change Oil Pricing Peg to Brent

US-Iran War: Saudi Weighs to Open Up TAIF Airbase To US

US-Israel War with Iran: Saudi Arabia Says Country Has Seen 575 Iranian Drone Strikes

US-Iran War: Houthis Ready to Hit Saudi, US In Battle for Red Sea

Can Red Sea Replace Strait of Hormuz: Capacity vs Reality

Report: Saudi Flags $180 Oil if Disruption Extends; Saudi Boosts Exports Via Red Sea Route

Can Red Sea Replace Strait of Hormuz: Capacity vs Reality

Saudi Arabia Intercepts Drones in Country's East; Missile Debris Sparks Fire in Bahrain

US-Iran War | Iran: Will Hit West Asia's Energy Infra If Our Facilities Are Hit

UAE, Saudi Leaders Hold Second Phone Call To Discuss Retaliatory Strikes on the Gulf

US-Iran War | Reports: Iranian Strikes Damage Five US Planes in Saudi Arabia

US-Iran War | Reports: Iranian Strikes Damage Five US Planes in Saudi Arabia