Washington, United States – Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman has expressed grave concerns over the potential of Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon.
In an exclusive interview with the US Fox News network, he stressed that if Iran were to acquire such a weapon, Saudi Arabia would feel compelled to do the same for “security reasons” and “balancing power.”
“We are concerned if any country gets a nuclear weapon; that’s a bad move. They don’t need to get a nuclear weapon because you cannot use it,” the Crown Prince stated. He further elaborated on the global implications of using nuclear weapons, noting, “any country using a nuclear weapon means they are having a war with the rest of the world.”
We are concerned if any country gets a nuclear weapon; that’s a bad move. They don’t need to get a nuclear weapon because you cannot use it.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman
The Crown Prince cautioned against the world witnessing another tragedy like Hiroshima, adding, “If the world sees 100,000 people dead that means you are in a war with the rest of the world.”
Saudi-Iran relations
On the topic of Saudi-Iranian relations, the Crown Prince acknowledged existing obstacles but confirmed that both nations are actively working towards resolution.
“We do our utmost (to normalize relations) and we see that the Iranians take the matter seriously. They do their best and that is why we continue the march,” he explained.
#Saudi Crown Prince #MohammadBinSalman said he recognizes #challenges in Saudi-#Iranian relations but sees #progress. In March, both nations agreed to restore diplomatic ties and reopen #embassies.@KSAmofaEN @HRHMBNSALMAN @FoxNews pic.twitter.com/2VIDmFQk5L
— TRENDS (@mena_trends) September 21, 2023
In March, Saudi Arabia and Iran had agreed to restore diplomatic relations and reopen their embassies within two months.
Ties with Israel
The Crown Prince touched upon the evolving relationship between Saudi Arabia and Israel. Contrary to some reports, he denied any pause in negotiations and expressed optimism about the countries moving closer to normalization. “Everyday we get closer, it seems it’s for the first time we are serious,” he remarked.
Prince Mohammad described potential agreements with Israel as “the biggest historical deal since the end of the Cold War,” contingent upon the treatment of the Palestinians.
“If we have a breakthrough of reaching a deal that gives the Palestinians what they want and makes the region calm, we’re going to work with whoever is there,” he affirmed.
Tourism goals
Saudi Crown Prince also touched on other important topics such as the Kingdom’s tourism goals and its stance on global events.
Highlighting the strides Saudi Arabia has made in its tourism sector, the Crown Prince emphasized the nation’s Vision 2030 reform agenda. A cornerstone of this vision is transforming Saudi Arabia into a premier global tourism destination. He proudly noted that investments in this sector have already borne fruit, elevating its contribution to the Saudi GDP from 3 percent to 7 percent.
OPEC oil output cuts
Addressing the geopolitical landscape, the Crown Prince clarified Saudi Arabia’s position on the OPEC oil production cuts and their perceived link to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. He stated, “We just watch supply, demand. Our role in OPEC+ is to balance the market, ensuring stability.”
If we have a breakthrough of reaching a deal that gives the Palestinians what they want and makes the region calm, we’re going to work with whoever is there.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
The conversation also delved into the sensitive topic of the 9/11 attacks. When questioned about Saudi Arabia’s alleged ties to the tragedy and potential governmental support for the terrorists, the Crown Prince firmly rejected these claims. He underscored that Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, who orchestrated attacks against Saudi Arabia in the 1990s, was an adversary to both the US and Saudi Arabia.
Betting high on Sports
Responding to accusations of Saudi Arabia using sports to launder its global image, a practice termed “sportswashing,” the Crown Prince candidly remarked, “If sportswashing boosts GDP by 1 percent, then I’ll embrace it. I aim for another 1.5 percent, call it what you will, but we’ll achieve that growth.”
Lastly, on the merger of the Saudi Public Investment Fund-backed LIV Golf League with the PGA Tour, the Crown Prince expressed enthusiasm, labeling it a “game changer for the golf industry.” He believes this merger will invigorate the sport, benefiting both players and avid golf fans.