In a bold statement at the Munich Security Conference, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) has called on Saudi Arabia to 'stop the escalating tensions' with the United Arab Emirates, warning that the conflict risks benefiting Iran at a critical moment in the Middle East. Graham's remarks, addressed directly to the leaders of both nations, were particularly strong, stating, 'As to MBS and MBZ - knock it off, Saudi Arabia, knock it off. I'm tired of this crap.'
The senator urged the Middle East to not let this moment pass, emphasizing that the rift between the UAE and Saudi Arabia is 'emboldening Iran'. He also pushed back against criticism of the Emirati leader's ties to Israel, stating, 'MBZ is not a Zionist.'
The tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been mounting in recent months, with the two U.S. allies backing different sides in regional conflicts and Saudi Arabia pivoting away from its role as a moderating force. Graham's comments come as he remains an outspoken advocate for expanded cooperation between Israel and Arab states, and has repeatedly emphasized countering Iran as a central U.S. objective in the region.
'Be smart, but don't be locked down with fear,' Graham advised. 'I know they [the UAE and Saudi Arabia] got differences in Yemen and they got differences in Sudan, but we got to think big picture.'
The senator's remarks also highlighted the diverging positions of the two countries in Sudan and Somalia, where they have taken opposite sides. Graham's meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem further underscores his commitment to regional stability and cooperation.
