Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has reportedly advised US President Donald Trump to "continue hitting the Iranians hard" as the US-Israel war against Iran enters its third week. The advice echoes a longstanding Saudi strategic position, mirroring the guidance given by King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, who died in 2015, to "cut off the head of the snake". A weakened or destabilised Iran is seen as a strategic win for Saudi Arabia. However, the conflict has also led to drone strikes on oil infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, with Iranian-backed attacks on energy facilities in both countries. The US president is reportedly under pressure from his own base and Arab leaders, including MBS, to maintain pressure on Iran.

Source: dna March 16, 2026 14:33 UTC