Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has privately urged US President Donald Trump to sustain military operations against Iran, describing the ongoing conflict as a “historic opportunity” to reshape the Middle East, according to a report by The New York Times.
Citing people briefed by American officials, the report states that the crown prince, often referred to as MBS, pressed for continued military pressure aimed at dismantling Iran’s hard-line leadership.
Push For Stronger Action Against Iran
During a series of recent conversations, Mohammed bin Salman reportedly argued that Iran poses a long-term threat to Gulf stability. He suggested that only a regime change could effectively neutralise the risks posed by Tehran.
The stance aligns partly with the position of Benjamin Netanyahu, who has consistently viewed Iran as a major strategic threat.
However, analysts point out a key difference: while Israel may see a weakened Iran as beneficial, Saudi Arabia fears that a collapse of the Iranian state could trigger instability and chaos closer to home.
Saudi Arabia’s Public Position
Despite reports of private discussions, Saudi Arabia has publicly maintained a different stance. Officials reiterated their support for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
“The kingdom of Saudi Arabia has always supported a peaceful resolution,” the government said in a statement, adding that its immediate concern is protecting civilian infrastructure from ongoing Iranian attacks.
Rising Regional And Economic Impact
The conflict has already begun to disrupt global markets and regional stability. Iranian missile and drone strikes have impacted key energy infrastructure, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz — a crucial route for global oil shipments.
Any escalation in the region could further strain oil supplies and increase economic uncertainty worldwide.
US Strategy: Between Diplomacy And Escalation
While Donald Trump has occasionally indicated openness to de-escalation, reports suggest that more aggressive options are also under consideration. These include potential strikes on Iranian energy facilities and even targeting key hubs such as Kharg Island.
According to the report, the Saudi crown prince is believed to support stronger measures, including the possibility of ground operations.
Concerns Over Prolonged Conflict
Despite strategic calculations, policymakers in both Washington and Riyadh are increasingly concerned about the risks of a prolonged war. A drawn-out conflict could expose Gulf economies to sustained attacks and trigger wider regional instability with unpredictable consequences.
Conclusion
The reported private push by Mohammed bin Salman highlights deep geopolitical divides over how to handle Iran. As the war continues, the balance between military strategy and regional stability remains a critical concern for global leaders.