A senior Saudi official disclosed on Thursday that Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman spearheaded urgent diplomatic efforts to persuade US President Donald Trump against launching an attack on Iran. The official cited deep concerns about potential "grave blowbacks in the region" as the primary motivation.
Frantic Last-Minute Diplomacy
The official, who spoke to AFP on condition of anonymity, stated that the Gulf trio engaged in a "long, frantic, diplomatic last-minute effort." Their goal was to convince President Trump to grant Iran an opportunity to demonstrate good intentions. The official emphasized that communication continues to strengthen the trust and positive spirit achieved through these discussions.
Iran's Internal Crackdown
This diplomatic warning emerges against the backdrop of Iran's violent suppression of nationwide protests. According to a New York Times report, the crackdown has resulted in more than 3,400 fatalities and over 18,400 detentions. Iranian prosecutors have announced plans to seek capital charges of "moharebeh," meaning "waging war against God," against some detainees, raising fears of executions to quell dissent.
Trump's Stern Warnings
President Trump responded forcefully to these developments. In a Tuesday interview with CBS News, he declared that the United States would take "very strong action" if Iranian authorities began carrying out hangings. He stated unequivocally, "We will take very strong action if they do such a thing."
Additionally, Trump escalated economic pressure on Tehran by announcing a 25% tariff on any country conducting business with Iran. He posted on Truth Social, "Effective immediately, any Country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a Tariff of 25% on any and all business being done with the United States of America."
Iranian Reactions and Accusations
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi cautioned Trump during a Fox News interview, urging him to "not repeat the same mistake that you did in June." Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the United States and Israel of attempting to destabilize Iran by inciting unrest. While promising to address public grievances, he warned against violent protesters and advised Iranians to avoid "rioters and terrorists."
The Gulf states' diplomatic intervention highlights the complex interplay of regional security concerns, international pressure, and internal Iranian turmoil. Their efforts reflect a strategic attempt to prevent further escalation that could destabilize the entire Middle East.
