IDF intelligence chief, Saudi defense minister in Washington for talks with US on potential Iran strikes

Senior Saudi and Israeli defense and intelligence officials are in Washington, DC, this week for talks with the Trump administration over potential US strikes on Iran, Axios reports, citing two US officials and two other sources with knowledge.

According to the outlet, Israeli officials including IDF Intelligence Directorate chief Maj. Gen. Shlomi Binder are sharing intelligence on potential targets in Iran, whereas the Saudis are trying to head off a war through diplomatic means.

Binder met senior Pentagon, CIA and White House officials on Tuesday and Wednesday, say the two US officials.

Meanwhile, Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman — younger brother of powerful Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman — is meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff on Thursday and Friday.

The Saudi crown prince has told Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian that Riyadh would not allow its airspace or territory to be used for military actions against Tehran, state news agency SPA reported earlier this week.

Trump is weighing options against Iran that include targeted strikes on security forces and leaders to inspire protesters, sources have told Reuters.

According to CNN, talks between Washington and Iran failed to make inroads on a deal to end the Islamic Republic’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, and that has increased Trump’s openness to major intervention.

Agencies contributed to this report.