Two informed US officials revealed that the US military is finalizing plans to prepare for a potential sustained military campaign against Iranian targets that could last for several weeks, should President Donald Trump issue a direct order to launch an attack. These rapid developments come at a highly sensitive time, as the rhetoric of military threats intertwines with fragile diplomatic efforts.

According to Reuters, the two officials warned that these military moves and the risks they entail could threaten to derail the ongoing diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran, which aim to defuse the crisis and avoid sliding into an open confrontation.

Diplomatic activity in Geneva and Omani mediation

On the diplomatic front, it was decided that US envoys Steve Wittkopf and Jared Kushner would lead a crucial round of negotiations with the Iranian side on Tuesday in Geneva. The Sultanate of Oman is playing a pivotal role in these talks as a trusted mediator for both sides, a role Muscat has historically played in bridging the gap between the West and Tehran.

American and Iranian diplomats held preliminary talks in Oman last week in a serious attempt to revive the diplomatic track concerning Tehran's nuclear program. These moves come after the Trump administration amassed a large military force in the region, raising widespread international concerns about the possibility of renewed military action that could alter the balance of power in the Middle East.

Massive military reinforcements in the Middle East

In the context of field preparations, US officials confirmed that the Department of Defense (Pentagon) is sending an additional aircraft carrier to the Middle East region. These reinforcements are not limited to naval vessels; they also include the deployment of thousands of additional troops, supported by squadrons of advanced fighter jets and guided-missile destroyers, providing formidable firepower capable of launching precise and wide-ranging attacks, as well as bolstering the defensive capabilities of US forces and their allies in the region.

The context of tension and the importance of strategic deterrence

These developments are of paramount strategic importance given the sensitivity of the Arabian Gulf region and the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global energy supplies. Historically, the United States has pursued a policy of "maximum pressure," combining economic sanctions with the threat of military force to compel Tehran to the negotiating table. Experts suggest that the deployment of aircraft carriers sends a strong deterrent message, intended to demonstrate the seriousness of the American response to potential threats.

Observers believe that the simultaneous military buildup and diplomatic negotiations reflect a strategy of negotiating under fire, whereby Washington seeks to achieve diplomatic gains through military pressure. However, concerns remain that any miscalculation or unintended clash between naval forces in the Gulf could ignite a wider regional war, something Omani mediation is striving to avoid at all costs.

As part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s active diplomatic efforts on the international stage, His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, participated today (Saturday) in a strategic dialogue session with the “Munich Young Leaders” group, jointly organized by the Körber Foundation and the Munich Security Conference, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference 2026.

The Kingdom's vision towards global challenges

The dialogue session highlighted the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's firm stances on various current regional and international crises. During the discussion, His Highness the Minister of Foreign Affairs reviewed the Saudi vision, which prioritizes dialogue and diplomacy in resolving conflicts, emphasizing the importance of intensifying "sincere and constructive dialogue" as the only way to overcome the common challenges facing the international community, from geopolitical tensions to issues of global security and stability.

The importance of the Munich Security Conference and the Kingdom's leading role

The Kingdom's participation in the Munich Security Conference is of paramount strategic importance, as this conference is the world's foremost platform for discussing international security policies. Prince Faisal bin Farhan's participation underscores Riyadh's pivotal role as a peacemaker and a reliable partner in maintaining regional and international security and stability. Through its ambitious Vision 2030, the Kingdom is working to build bridges of communication with all stakeholders, affirming that economic development and prosperity cannot be achieved in isolation from security and political stability.

Investing in future leaders

The dialogue with the “Munich Youth Leaders” is a significant forward-looking step, as this program brings together a select group of young minds and future decision-makers from around the world. The Foreign Minister’s keenness to meet with this group reflects the Kingdom’s belief in the importance of engaging rising generations in formulating innovative solutions to complex crises and conveying the Saudi perspective transparently to future leaders in global political and security circles.

High-level diplomatic presence

The session witnessed a notable Saudi diplomatic presence, with the participation of His Royal Highness Prince Dr. Abdullah bin Khalid bin Saud Al Kabeer, Director General of the General Directorate of Policy Planning, reflecting the depth of the political discourse presented. Also present was Mr. Nawaf bin Khalid Al-Issa, a member of the Munich Youth Leaders 2026, highlighting the active Saudi presence not only at the leadership level but also among qualified young professionals in international forums.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues its balanced diplomatic approach, seeking through these international platforms to enhance multilateral cooperation and advance efforts to de-escalate tensions in various hotspots around the world.