Saudi Arabia is monitoring the possibility of a US military strike against Iran with growing concern, viewing the situation as alarming and highly undesirable, Sergey Kozlov, the Russian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, told RBC TV channel.
"Saudi Arabia views this situation as alarming and extremely undesirable," the diplomat noted. "In recent years, Saudi Arabia has practically restored normal relations with Iran. While normalization is progressing, perhaps not as quickly as some might hope, the relationship is overall acceptable to both sides."
Kozlov warned that a US strike could "break everything." He explained that there is growing concern in Riyadh that such an attack could destabilize the entire Middle East. "The Saudis absolutely do not need this," he continued. "Their primary task right now is to implement their strategic program for socio-economic development, and for that, they require a favorable external environment." The diplomat pointed out that any "adventures" by the US or other countries that might undermine or destroy regional stability would prevent Saudi Arabia from achieving its ambitious global plans.
Furthermore, he emphasized that any military action against Iran carries direct risks for the Kingdom, especially given the American military presence in the region. "The Iranians have warned that in the event of a US strike, they will respond in any way they can," Kozlov added. "Physically, they are capable of targeting Israel, which is an absolutely hostile state to Iran, as well as striking American bases and interests throughout the region. Naturally, no one here in Saudi Arabia wants to see that happen."
These comments come after CBS News reported, citing anonymous sources, that the US administration is considering a strike on Iran as early as the upcoming weekend. However, the report noted that a final decision "has not yet been made," as the White House continues to weigh the risks of escalation against the political and military consequences of refraining from an attack.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Richard Ricciardi/Creative Commons 2.0
Based on materials from TASS