The geopolitical situation in the Middle East is taking an unexpected turn. Reuters reports, citing Western diplomatic circles and reliable sources in Iran, that Saudi Arabia has launched direct military strikes on Iranian territory for the first time in its history. These attacks had been kept secret from the general public until now.
An unexpected and sharp response
Analysts believe that these previously undisclosed military operations indicate that Riyadh has begun to act much more confidently and decisively on regional security issues. The Kingdom has decided to respond to its arch-rival's attacks in kind—on its own territory.
It turns out that Saudi Arabia's retaliatory strikes were carried out in March of this year. However, which specific strategic facilities in Iran were targeted remains a secret. Neither the Riyadh nor Tehran foreign ministries are in a hurry to provide official comments on this situation.
How did the conflict begin?
The escalation was caused by the large-scale military campaign launched against Iran by the US and Israel on February 28 of this year. In response, Tehran launched missile and drone attacks on Arab nations that are close allies of Washington, including Saudi Arabia.
Key targets hit by Iran:
Diplomatic mission: US Embassy in Saudi Arabia;
Energy giant: The Ras Tanura facility of Saudi Aramco , one of the world's largest oil export hubs.
Riyadh's position: From determination to negotiations
Saudi Arabia's approach to this war can be divided into two important stages. Initially, the Kingdom's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged US President Donald Trump to continue military actions against Iran without hesitation.
However, the prolongation of the war and the blockade of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz forced Riyadh to soften its position. As a result, the Kingdom began trying to persuade Washington to end the blockade and restore dialogue with Tehran.
Regional secret games
It is worth noting that not only Saudi Arabia, but also the United Arab Emirates is known to have carried out a series of covert attacks against Tehran. Furthermore, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's secret visit to the UAE while the war was ongoing signifies that regional alliances have reached a new level.
Do you think Saudi Arabia's direct response to Iran will help establish peace in the region or worsen the situation?
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