Saudi Prince Is Said to Push Trump to Continue Iran War in Recent Calls

New York Times
by Julian E. Barnes, Tyler Pager and Eric Schmitt
March 24, 2026
3 min read

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The Bottom Line

Saudi Crown Prince pushes Trump to sustain military pressure on Iran, viewing it as historic opportunity.

How This Affects You

Foreign governments are directly lobbying the Trump administration on US military decisions regarding Iran, potentially influencing escalation that could increase energy prices and defense spending.

AI Summary

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has recently urged President Trump to maintain military pressure on Iran, viewing the current geopolitical moment as a "historic opportunity" to reshape the Middle East, according to people briefed by U.S. officials on the calls. The prince's push reflects Saudi Arabia's longstanding regional rivalry with Iran and its concerns about Iranian influence across the Middle East. The conversations suggest alignment between Riyadh and the Trump administration on confronting Tehran, a position consistent with Trump's previous tough stance on Iran policy. Prince Mohammed bin Salman's direct engagement with the president underscores Saudi Arabia's effort to shape U.S. regional strategy during Trump's second term. The outcome of these discussions could influence whether the administration pursues escalatory measures against Iran or seeks diplomatic openings.

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