Saudi Defense Minister Holds Emergency Meeting with President Trump, Delivers Crown Prince’s Message: U.S. Media

WASHINGTON: Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman held an emergency meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump to convey a special message from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, according to U.S. media reports.

The meeting was aimed at delivering the Saudi leadership’s message directly to the U.S. administration amid growing regional tensions.

Earlier, during a meeting with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, Prince Khalid said that Saudi Arabia seeks de-escalation with Iran and favors diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions in the region.

He stated that Iran-backed Iraqi militias had crossed a “red line” by attacking critical infrastructure and energy facilities, necessitating a response from the Kingdom. However, he emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s actions in Iraq were not intended to escalate tensions but to demonstrate that the Kingdom is prepared to defend itself when required.

The Saudi Defense Minister also told Vice President Vance that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is advocating for increased tensions with Iran, whereas Saudi Arabia believes that de-escalation is the more beneficial path for regional stability.

Citing informed sources, U.S. media reported that Saudi Arabia’s strikes in Iraq were also intended to send a message to the Houthi movement. Prince Khalid informed the U.S. Vice President that Saudi Arabia possesses the capability to deal with the Houthis independently and that U.S. intervention is not needed at this stage.

He further disclosed that negotiations with the Houthis are ongoing, underscoring Riyadh’s preference for dialogue alongside maintaining its defensive preparedness.