PNN – The New York Times has reported that Iran’s strength has altered Saudi calculations regarding the war.
According to the report of Pakistan News Network; an analytical report by The New York Times details the shift in the stance of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman toward Iran following his encounter with the reality of Tehran’s military power; key points of the report are outlined below:
1- Bin Salman’s Pivot
The New York Times reports that Bin Salman initially urged Trump to pursue war to destroy the Iranian government; however, after witnessing Iran’s strength and resilience, he shifted his stance and instead pressured the U.S. President to accept a ceasefire.
2- The shift in the region’s psychology regarding Iran
According to Michael Ratney, the former U.S. Ambassador to Riyadh, “the moment Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, the entire psychology of the Persian Gulf changed”—a move that transformed the calculations of regional rulers, including Bin Salman, regarding the ability to contain Iran.
3- Saudi Arabia Rejects Trump’s Project
When the Pentagon announced its “Freedom Program” in May to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, Saudi Arabia closed its airspace to U.S. fighter jets. The Saudis had concluded that Trump’s move could reignite the flames of war and trigger retaliatory attacks by Iran against them.
4- Distrust of the US Security Umbrella
Observing Trump’s erratic behavior, Saudi officials view the US administration as an unreliable actor—and even a “risk”—to Arab nations, questioning whether the United States is actually capable of protecting them should a new war break out.
5- Direct Dialogue with Tehran
Moving away from the priorities of the Trump administration, Bin Salman has pursued his own independent initiatives; he is now engaging in direct talks with Iranian officials—via a diplomatic channel established with China’s assistance—regarding security issues and control of the Strait of Hormuz.
6- Conclusion
An analysis by The New York Times indicates that the resilience of Iran’s power throughout this war compelled the Saudi Crown Prince to retreat from his aggressive stance and—in the interest of his own security—opt for a path of diplomacy and the acceptance of the geopolitical reality of Iran.