Lindsey Graham warns Saudi Arabia of ‘consequences’ if it refuses to join US–Israel in Iran war

WASHINGTON, DC: Senator Lindsey Graham on Monday, March 9, called on Saudi Arabia to join US and Israeli military efforts against Iran, describing the conflict as a shared strategic interest for countries in the Middle East. 

The South Carolina Republican questioned why the kingdom has not used its military forces in the ongoing war, despite its close security ties with Washington.

Graham’s comments come as the United States continues operations aimed at weakening Iran’s government and military capabilities. 

Lindsey Graham questions Saudi Arabia’s absence in war against Iran

Graham raised the issue in a post on social media, saying it was his understanding that Saudi Arabia has declined to use its military in the ongoing conflict involving Iran. “It is my understanding the Kingdom refuses to use their capable military as a part of an effort to end the barbaric and terrorist Iranian regime who has terrorized the region and killed 7 Americans,” Graham wrote on X.

The senator also questioned whether the United States should maintain its defense agreement with Saudi Arabia if the kingdom does not take part in military operations. “Question, why should America do a defense agreement with a country like the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that is unwilling to join a fight of mutual interest?” he added.

Last year, the Trump administration reached a $142 billion defense and security deal with Saudi Arabia. The agreement included the purchase of advanced military equipment from dozens of American companies and was tied to a broader $600 billion Saudi investment in the United States.

Under the deal, Saudi Arabia would be allowed to acquire F-35 fighter jets, a significant upgrade that would give the kingdom access to advanced aircraft produced by Lockheed Martin and typically reserved for close US allies.

Graham says US already bearing cost of war, urges Gulf allies to step up

Graham argued that the United States has already committed significant military and financial resources to the conflict with Iran, while some regional partners have limited their role to statements or indirect support.

“Americans are dying and the US is spending billions to dislodge the terrorist Iranian regime that threatens the region. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia seems to be issuing statements and doing things in the background that are marginally helpful, but unwilling to participate in military operations to end the reign of terror coming out of Iran,” he wrote.

US President Donald Trump delivers remarks during a dinner with Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia in the East Room at the White House on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC (Getty Images)

He added that countries in the Gulf region should play a more active role given the proximity of the conflict.

“Hopefully Gulf Cooperation Council countries will get more involved as this fight is in their backyard,” Graham said.

Graham has been a consistent advocate for stronger military action against Iran and has maintained close ties with Israeli leadership, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Reports indicate the South Carolina senator has made several trips to the Middle East in recent months, where he met with members of Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad.

During those visits, he reportedly discussed strategy with regional leaders and encouraged greater coordination in confronting Iran.

“If you are not willing to use your military now, when are you willing to use it? Hopefully this changes soon. If not, consequences will follow,” Graham wrote.