Israeli Minister Sparks Controversy: Saudi King Should Thank Washington and Tel Aviv for the War Against Iran
Eli Cohen Outlines His View of the U.S. and Israeli Role in Gulf Security, Arguing That the Confrontation with Iran Prevented a Direct Threat to Saudi Arabia and Other Regional States
NYN | Reports and Analyses
Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen made remarks that sparked widespread controversy, discussing the nature of relations between the United States, Israel, and the Gulf states during the recent confrontation with Iran. He argued that American and Israeli actions contributed to safeguarding regional security.
During a televised interview with Alhurra TV, Cohen stated that the Saudi monarch owes gratitude to both the United States and Israel, claiming that the actions taken by Washington and Tel Aviv during the war with Iran helped protect the Kingdom from potential threats.
Cohen: U.S. and Israeli Intervention Provided Protection for the Gulf
The Israeli minister indicated that the confrontation with Iran was not solely related to Israel’s security but also involved, in his words, the security of Gulf states, particularly Saudi Arabia.
He added that if the United States and Israel had not acted against Iran, Tehran would have had a greater opportunity to strengthen its military capabilities, including what he described as the possibility of acquiring a nuclear weapon—something he considered a direct threat to Gulf countries.
Remarks Reflect Tel Aviv’s View of Relations with the Gulf
Cohen’s statements come amid continuing regional debate over the consequences of the recent war with Iran and the future of security balances in the region. The remarks reflect an Israeli perspective that views the security of Gulf states as directly linked to American and Israeli actions in confronting Tehran.
The comments have also revived discussion about the nature of undeclared relations and security and political coordination in the region, particularly in light of the changes that have occurred in recent years regarding relations between some Arab countries and Israel.
A Sensitive Moment
The Israeli minister’s remarks carry particular significance because they come at a time of rising regional tensions and a reshaping of political and security alliances, amid anticipation over the future course of relations between Iran and the United States and the implications for Gulf security and the broader Middle East.
