Saudi Arabia Condemns Israeli Strikes Against Iran

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has expressed firm condemnation of recent strikes against the Islamic Republic of Iran, describing them as a breach of Iran’s sovereignty and a violation of international norms.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed Saudi Arabia's stance against escalating tensions and regional instability, underscoring the need for all parties to respect sovereignty and abide by international law. Without naming Israel, the statement condemned the "military targeting" of Iran.

"The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expresses its condemnation and denunciation of the military targeting of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which is a violation of its sovereignty and a violation of international laws and norms," the Ministry's statement read. "The Kingdom also affirms its unwavering position in its rejection of the continued escalation in the region and the expansion of the conflict that threatens the security and stability of the countries and people of the region."

Saudi-Iran Relations and Regional Diplomacy

Saudi Arabia and Iran, longstanding rivals in the Middle East, began reconciliation in 2023 through a China-brokered deal restoring diplomatic ties after seven years. This shift occurred as Saudi Arabia was reportedly pursuing normalization with Israel, Iran’s regional adversary.

Recently, Riyadh and Tehran conducted joint military exercises in the Sea of Oman, aiming to foster cooperation and ease tensions, as confirmed by Saudi Defense Ministry spokesperson Brigadier General Turki al-Malki.

Regional stability remains fragile amid conflicts, especially with Iran-aligned Houthi forces increasing vessel attacks in the Red Sea, signaling support for Palestinians in the Israel-Gaza conflict. Saudi Arabia, leading a coalition against the Houthis in Yemen, seeks to prevent further regional destabilization. Attacks from Houthis on Saudi Arabia have, however, sharply declined, with no recent strikes on Saudi oil facilities, unlike in 2019-2022.