Saudi Arabia is working to keep its territory out of the line of fire if fighting between the United States and Iran resumes, enlisting the help of Pakistan and Turkey to get its message across to Tehran, Kan News reported on Monday evening.

According to a Saudi source familiar with the details, Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman met in recent days in Tehran with Iran’s top leadership, joined by representatives from Turkey and Pakistan.

During the meeting, the Saudis made clear that the kingdom has no interest in taking part in a confrontation with Iran and will not allow strikes against the Islamic Republic to be carried out from its territory or its airspace. In return, Riyadh expects Tehran to refrain from attacking Saudi Arabia.

The source said that bringing Pakistan and Turkey into the move was meant to show Tehran that any attack on the kingdom could draw those countries into the conflict as well.

The source added that Riyadh wants to avoid opening another front against Iran at a time when the kingdom is focused on dealing with pro-Iranian forces in the region, particularly the Houthi terrorists in Yemen and the Shiite militias in Iraq.

Earlier on Monday, Kan reported that Gulf states are preparing for a resumption of the war between the US and Iran. An official in the United Arab Emirates said the Gulf states are being realistic and that a confrontation appears to be on the way, adding that there is little trust in Iran and that even a last-minute Iranian concession would likely be just another stalling tactic.

On Sunday night, Kan reported that Israeli officials believe President Trump may order a renewal of the campaign against Iran within days, prompting a round of talks between Israel and Gulf states, especially those that are part of the Abraham Accords.

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