Iran urges Saudi Arabia to expel US forces as regional tensions escalate

Tensions in the Gulf region escalated sharply as Abbas Araghchi called on Saudi Arabia to remove US military forces from its territory, framing the move as necessary for regional stability. In a statement posted on X, he described Saudi Arabia as a “brotherly nation” while asserting that Iran’s military actions target only “enemy aggressors.”

The statement came amid a fresh wave of Iranian missile launches targeting Gulf states it accuses of facilitating US operations. In Dubai, falling debris from intercepted missiles injured four people, while authorities reported a fire on a Kuwaiti oil tanker at the city’s port. Meanwhile, Saudi officials confirmed intercepting eight ballistic missiles, underscoring the widening scope of the conflict.

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US President Donald Trump warned that failure to reach a ceasefire agreement could result in extensive strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure, including power plants, oil facilities, and Kharg Island. However, reports suggest he may be open to ending hostilities even if the strategic Strait of Hormuz remains partially closed.

Iran’s parliament has signaled defiance, with a committee approving measures to impose tolls on vessels passing through the strait and potentially banning ships from the United States and Israel. The move has raised international concern, given that the waterway handles roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized the proposal, warning it could set a dangerous precedent by allowing nations to assert control over international waterways. He also indicated efforts to build a coalition to counter Iran’s plans.

As rhetoric hardens and military activity intensifies, fears are growing that the conflict could further destabilise global energy markets and regional security.