Saudi Crown Prince MBS: “If Iran acquired nuclear weapons, Saudi Arabia would have to follow suit”

In an exclusive interview with Fox News, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, often referred to as MBS, addressed a Western audience and touched upon critical regional issues. The crown prince emphasized the importance of the ongoing Israeli-Saudi normalization talks, hinting at progress in these negotiations.

During the hour-long interview, MBS expressed deep concerns regarding Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons. He firmly stated that if Iran were to acquire such weapons, Saudi Arabia would be compelled to follow suit. This direct declaration is the most explicit indication to date that the Kingdom would not remain idle if Iran crossed the nuclear weapon threshold.

MBS also outlined Saudi Arabia’s prerequisites for normalizing relations with Israel, a nation with which it has had no formal diplomatic ties since Israel’s establishment in 1948. Riyadh seeks security guarantees from the United States as a fundamental condition for any agreement with Israel. Additionally, Saudi Arabia aims to develop a civilian nuclear program, encompassing uranium enrichment, on its own soil. The Kingdom’s demands extend to the establishment of a mutual defense pact with the United States and significant arms deals.

However, the crown prince underscored that any progress towards normalization with Israel is closely linked to advancements in the Palestinian issue. He reiterated the significance of resolving this long-standing conflict, though he did not specify the exact parameters of a potential settlement. MBS expressed hope that such an agreement would improve the lives of Palestinians and facilitate Israel’s role in the Middle East.

He emphasized, “If we have a breakthrough in reaching a deal that addresses Palestinian needs and fosters regional stability, we are prepared to collaborate with all stakeholders.” The crown prince, who effectively governs Saudi Arabia, went on to highlight the inherent dangers of nuclear weapons but clarified, “While we recognize the necessity of nuclear capabilities for security and regional balance, our preference is to avoid such a scenario.”