WSJ: Saudi Arabia urges US to ease pressure on Iran

Saudi Arabia is urging the United States to reconsider its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and return to negotiations with Iran, Arab officials told the Wall Street Journal, amid fears that escalating tensions could trigger wider disruptions to global shipping routes.

The U.S. blockade, introduced following President Donald Trump’s threats of military action and unsuccessful weekend talks, is intended to intensify pressure on Iran’s already weakened economy. However, Saudi officials have warned that further escalation could prompt Tehran to retaliate by closing the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a critical Red Sea chokepoint essential for Saudi oil exports.

The Strait of Hormuz has already been severely disrupted by the conflict, with Iran reportedly attacking vessels in the waterway earlier in the war, reducing global oil flows by around 13 million barrels per day and pushing oil futures above $100 a barrel.

“The blockade is aimed at raising the pressure on Iran’s already crippled economy. But the officials said Saudi Arabia has warned Iran might retaliate by closing the Bab al-Mandeb—a Red Sea chokepoint crucial for the kingdom’s remaining oil exports,” Arab officials said.

The White House defended its policy, with spokeswoman Anna Kelly stating: “President Trump has been clear that he wants the Strait of Hormuz to be fully open to facilitate the free flow of energy,” and adding: “The administration is in frequent contact with our Gulf allies, who the President is helping by ensuring that Iran cannot extort the United States or any other country.”

Despite the tensions in the Gulf, Saudi Arabia has reportedly managed to restore oil exports to pre-war levels of around seven million barrels per day by rerouting shipments through pipelines across the desert to the Red Sea. However, officials warn that these alternative routes would be jeopardised if access to the Red Sea were also disrupted.

By Sabina Mammadli