Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei meets Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman (KBS) in Tehran, Iran in this 2025 file photo. Salman told a private Washington briefing that Trump not acting against Iran after weeks of threats would embolden the regime. (IMAGE: REUTERS)
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News1831-01-2026, 19:30

Saudi Defence Minister Warns Trump: Inaction on Iran Will 'Embolden Regime'

  • Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman warned President Trump that not taking military action against Iran would strengthen the regime, according to an Axios report.
  • Prince Khalid argued in a private Washington briefing that failure to follow through on threats would embolden, not deter, Tehran.
  • His remarks contrasted with Saudi Arabia's public stance, which has emphasized de-escalation and respect for Iran's sovereignty.
  • The Saudi minister had earlier met with top US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, to discuss potential military action.
  • Despite a US military build-up in the Gulf, Washington's plans remain uncertain, and no direct negotiations are currently underway with Iran.

Why It Matters: Saudi Defence Minister warns that US inaction against Iran risks emboldening the regime, despite public calls for de-escalation.

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