Saudi Arabia Warns Iran Over Energy Sector Attacks, Threatens US Base Access

Saudi Arabia has issued a stark warning to Iran, stating that continued attacks on its energy sector could lead the Kingdom to grant the United States military access to its bases and take retaliatory measures. This ultimatum was delivered during a recent phone call between Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi.

During the conversation, the Saudi minister emphasized Riyadh's openness to any form of mediation aimed at de-escalating tensions in the Middle East. However, he made it clear that further strikes would provoke a significant response.

In reply, Tehran demanded the closure of American military bases in the region and an end to the sharing of intelligence information with Washington by certain Persian Gulf states. Iran contends this intelligence is being used to facilitate attacks against it.

Iranian sources confirmed the diplomatic exchange took place. They reiterated Iran's position that its recent strikes were not directed at the Gulf nations themselves but were instead targeted at US military installations located within their territories.

The backdrop for this tense dialogue is a series of escalating military actions. The United States and Israel reportedly began striking targets inside Iran, including near Tehran, on February 28th, with reports of destruction and civilian casualties. In response, Iran has launched retaliatory strikes against Israeli territory and US military assets across the Middle East.