Saudi Arabia Warns Iran to Reach Nuclear Deal with Trump or Face Israeli Strike

 

Saudi Arabia's defense minister delivered a stern message to Iranian officials in Tehran last month: pursue a nuclear agreement with President Donald Trump’s administration to avoid the risk of war with Israel. King Salman bin Abdulaziz sent his son, Prince Khalid bin Salman, to warn Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during a secret meeting on April 17.

Prince Khalid emphasized that Trump is eager for a swift deal and has little patience for prolonged negotiations. He warned Tehran that failing to reach an agreement could lead to an Israeli military strike, especially amid rising regional tensions and ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.

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This visit marked the first high-level Saudi royal engagement with Iran in over two decades, signaling a cautious rapprochement following regional hostility and proxy conflicts. Saudi Arabia hopes to avoid escalation and sees diplomacy—particularly a nuclear deal—as the best path forward.

Iran’s leaders, meanwhile, continue to weigh their options. Iranian officials expressed a desire for sanctions relief but remain wary of Trump’s unpredictable approach, which has included threats of military force and demands for full denuclearization.

The White House responded that President Trump remains committed to ensuring Iran makes a deal or faces “grave consequences,” heightening the stakes for all parties.