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Saudi Defense Minister Holds Secret White House Talks With Trump on Iran and Gaza

The meeting laid the groundwork for a U.S.-Saudi defense pact, signaling optimism on de-escalating tensions with Iran

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President Trump and Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman at the White House in 2018. Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Overview

  • Prince Khalid bin Salman met privately with President Trump at the White House on July 3 to discuss regional security initiatives.
  • They explored steps to de-escalate tensions with Iran and discussed pathways for renewed negotiations in Tehran.
  • Discussions included ending the Gaza war and securing the release of remaining hostages alive or deceased.
  • Saudi Arabia and the U.S. are finalizing a defense and trade agreement to cement their strategic alignment.
  • Following the summit, Prince Khalid phoned Iran’s Chief of General Staff, Maj. Gen. Abdolrahim Mousavi, and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is set to pursue nuclear talks ahead of Netanyahu’s July 7 visit.