Iranian and Saudi Leaders Hold Historic Call, Discuss Israel-Palestine Conflict and Gaza Tensions

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had their first telephone call since ties were restored through a China-brokered deal. They discussed the need to end war crimes against Palestine amidst the ongoing conflict with Israel. The Saudi crown prince affirmed the kingdom's efforts to communicate with international and regional parties to stop the escalation and reiterated their rejection of targeting civilians. The U.S., which supports Israel, is in constant contact with Saudi leaders and is urging partners with relations to Hamas, Hezbollah, or Iran to de-escalate the situation.