Daijiworld Media Network – Riyadh
Riyadh, Apr 17: Saudi Arabia played a key role in pushing the United States to prioritise a ceasefire in Lebanon as part of broader efforts to sustain dialogue with Iran and ease tensions in the region, according to multiple US, Western, and Arab officials.
Sources said Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman raised the issue during a private phone call with US President Donald Trump, stressing that a ceasefire in Lebanon was critical to stabilising the region and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Soon after, Trump announced a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, a move several officials attributed to Saudi lobbying. However, uncertainty remains over Israel’s compliance and the extent of pressure Washington may exert on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Officials indicated that Saudi Arabia is actively positioning itself as a mediator, with Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan expected to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in the coming days, possibly along with Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman.
The push comes amid Iran’s insistence that a ceasefire in Lebanon is essential for meaningful talks with the US. A temporary truce between Washington and Tehran is set to expire on April 21, with both sides exploring possibilities for extension.
Pakistan has emerged as a key intermediary in US-Iran talks, though officials noted that its role is closely backed by Saudi Arabia, a long-standing ally. Riyadh recently extended a $3 billion loan to Pakistan, reinforcing its influence in ongoing diplomatic efforts.
While Saudi Arabia had initially opposed US strikes on Iran, it later provided limited support, even allowing the use of its King Fahd Air Base during heightened tensions. At the same time, the kingdom has urged restraint, focusing on reopening vital maritime routes and avoiding further escalation.
Saudi Arabia has also reportedly cautioned against any blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global oil transit route. Despite having alternative export routes, the kingdom remains keen on ensuring stability in both the Hormuz Strait and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait amid ongoing regional volatility.