Saudi expels iranian military staff amid rising gulf tensions

Dubai: Escalating tensions in the Gulf region have taken a sharp diplomatic turn, with Saudi Arabia expelling Iranian military officials and staff from its territory following repeated attacks allegedly carried out by Iran targeting regional assets.

The move comes amid growing anger in Riyadh over Iran’s strikes, which, according to Saudi authorities, were carried out under the pretext of responding to attacks by the United States. However, Saudi Arabia has accused Iran of targeting not just military installations but also critical civilian infrastructure within its borders.

In an official statement, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned the attacks, terming them a violation of international norms. The ministry stated, “The continued targeting of Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, civilian facilities, citizens, economic interests, and diplomatic premises constitutes a serious breach of international law.”

Reports indicate that Iranian strikes aimed at US military bases in Saudi Arabia have also caused collateral damage to key infrastructure, further aggravating tensions. Saudi officials described the situation as a direct threat not only to national security but also to regional stability.

The statement, released through the Saudi Press Agency, characterised Iran’s actions as “ongoing aggression against Saudi Arabia and its regional partners,” and called for immediate cessation of such hostilities. It further stressed that these acts undermine established diplomatic conventions and violate principles of good neighbourly relations.

Saudi authorities have also pointed out that Iran’s military activities contradict international agreements, including the Beijing Agreement, and are in violation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026). Officials highlighted what they described as a widening gap between Tehran’s rhetoric and its actions on the ground.

Additionally, the ministry criticised Iran for acting against the principles of Islamic unity. It stated that such aggression goes against the values of Islamic brotherhood and the moral principles often cited by Iranian leadership.

As a direct response to what it termed “clear Iranian aggression,” Saudi Arabia has taken the decisive step of expelling Iranian military personnel. This action is seen as a significant escalation in diplomatic measures, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.

According to regional reports, the attacks have not been limited to Saudi Arabia alone but have also affected several Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, raising concerns across the Arab world. The developments have triggered wider international attention, with calls for restraint and de-escalation.

Analysts warn that if tensions continue to rise, the region could face further instability, impacting global energy supplies and security dynamics.