Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman Press Trump to Avoid Iran Strike Amid Protest Crackdown
New Delhi: Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Oman led an urgent diplomatic push to dissuade US President Donald Trump from launching military action against Iran, warning that such a move could trigger “grave blowbacks in the region,” a senior Saudi official said on Thursday.
Speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity, the official said the three Gulf countries carried out intense last-minute efforts to persuade Trump to allow Tehran time to demonstrate goodwill. The official added that communication remains ongoing to consolidate trust and preserve what was described as a constructive diplomatic atmosphere.
Backdrop of Iran’s Protest Crackdown
The diplomatic intervention comes as Iran continues a violent crackdown on nationwide protests. According to a New York Times report, more than 3,400 people have been killed and over 18,400 detained since demonstrations erupted.
Concerns have intensified after Iranian prosecutors said they would seek capital punishment under “moharebeh” — or “waging war against God” — charges against some detained protesters. Rights groups fear executions could be used to suppress dissent.
Trump Issues Warnings, Expands Pressure
Trump warned earlier this week that the US would respond strongly if Iran carries out executions linked to the protests. He also announced a 25 per cent tariff on countries continuing business with Iran, declaring the measure “final and conclusive” in a post on Truth Social.
The tariff move significantly escalates pressure on Tehran and its trading partners amid the unrest.
Iran Pushes Back Against US Threats
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi cautioned Trump against repeating past mistakes, while President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the US and Israel of fuelling unrest. Pezeshkian said the government would address public grievances but warned against violent protesters, urging citizens to distance themselves from what he called “rioters and terrorists.”
Our Thoughts
The Gulf states’ intervention reflects deep regional anxiety over the consequences of military escalation with Iran. As pressure mounts through sanctions and rhetoric, diplomacy remains the only viable path to prevent a wider regional crisis that could destabilise the Middle East and beyond.