Lindsey Graham attacks Saudi Arabia, threatens 'consequences' for refusing military participation against Iran

Prominent Republican Senator Lindsey Graham launched scathing criticism at the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, accusing it of failing to use its military capabilities to confront what he described as the 'brutal and terrorist' Iranian regime. Graham stated that Tehran has caused a state of terror in the region and its practices have led to the deaths of seven American citizens, which necessitates decisive action from regional allies.

Through his account on the 'X' platform, the American senator questioned the strategic utility of the United States seeking to conclude a joint defense agreement with Riyadh, at a time when the latter refuses direct involvement in a battle that affects the common interests of both countries. Graham considered that military alliances must be based on the principle of actual solidarity on the ground, not just on paper, especially in light of the existential threats posed by Iran.

Graham explained that the United States continues to spend billions of dollars and sacrifice the lives of its soldiers to curb Iranian influence, which threatens the stability of the entire Middle East. In contrast, the senator believes that current Saudi actions are nothing more than diplomatic statements and behind-the-scenes moves that offer very limited benefits and do not rise to the level of current security challenges imposed by Tehran.

Graham's criticisms were not limited to Saudi Arabia alone; he also issued a direct call to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to seriously engage in military confrontation. The senator warned that the continuation of the current situation would inevitably lead to 'consequences' whose nature he did not specify, but which hint at the possibility of re-evaluating the defense and security relations linking Washington with the capitals of the region.

These sharp statements come shortly after a meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Senator Graham at Al-Yamamah Palace in the capital, Riyadh, last month. According to official sources at the time, the meeting discussed the historical friendly relations between the two countries and reviewed developments in regional and international situations in a way that serves common interests.

That meeting was attended by high-level Saudi officials, including Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman and Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. Despite the protocol atmosphere reflected in the official news of the meeting, Graham's recent statements indicate a deep divergence in views on how to deal with the Iranian file and the distribution of military burdens.

It is worth noting that Graham had previously criticized Saudi positions due to differences in views with the United Arab Emirates, particularly regarding the Yemeni file. This new wave of attack reflects increasing pressure within decision-making circles in Washington to push Gulf allies towards playing a more offensive military role in confronting Iranian activities in the region.

Why would America conclude a defense agreement with a country like Saudi Arabia that refuses to participate in a battle of common interest?