How the Saudis Keep Sidestepping a Costly Role in the Iran War
This image was generated by AI and may not depict real events.
Saudi Arabia has been avoiding a direct role in the conflict with Iran, despite being a major US ally in the Middle East. The Saudis have been providing off-stage advice to the Trump White House, but their official absence from war planning is notable, especially given their significant military spending.
The Saudi government has been hesitant to commit to a direct role in the conflict with Iran. Despite having one of the world's most well-funded militaries, they have contributed little to the war effort. The US and Israel have been using their militaries to deliver attacks on Iran. The Saudis have been providing advice to the Trump White House, but their absence from war planning is notable. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia spent $78 billion on its military in 2025. The region's economy is unraveling due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The Saudis' reluctance to engage in the conflict may be due to their preference to let the US handle the war.
This content was automatically generated and/or translated by AI. It may contain inaccuracies. Please refer to the original sources for verification.