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Saudi Arabia has carried out covert attacks on Iran in response to attacks that Tehran had launched against the kingdom during the recent war in the Middle East, Reuters reported, citing two Western and two Iranian officials.
The Saudi strikes were carried out by the Saudi Air Force in late March, according to sources, and are the first known instance of Saudi Arabia taking direct military action on Iranian territory. Reuters was unable to confirm the specific targets struck.
A senior Saudi Foreign Ministry official did not directly confirm the air operations, but reaffirmed Riyadh’s stance on “de-escalation, restraint and regional stability.” The Iranian Foreign Ministry did not respond to a request for comment.
The 10-week war in the region began after US and Israeli air strikes on Iran on February 28. Iran then struck Gulf states with missiles and drones, targeting US military bases, civilian airports and energy infrastructure. The conflict has also affected global trade after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Reuters also reported that the United Arab Emirates has carried out military operations against Iran, while Saudi Arabia has also pursued a diplomatic channel with Tehran to avoid a wider escalation. The sources said that Riyadh had notified Iran of the attacks and then the two sides reached an informal understanding to reduce tensions.
Ali Vaez, head of the Iran Project at the International Crisis Group, said the developments show a "pragmatic recognition" by both sides that an uncontrolled escalation would have "unacceptable costs."
According to Reuters, the informal de-escalation began about a week before the April 7 ceasefire between Washington and Tehran. An Iranian official said the agreement was aimed at “ceasing hostilities, protecting mutual interests and preventing further tensions.”
Relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia have been tense for decades, with both countries supporting rival camps in regional conflicts. However, in 2023, a deal brokered by China led to the restoration of diplomatic ties and a ceasefire in Yemen, which remains in effect.
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