US Senator Lindsey Graham Questions Defense Ties With Kingdom as Embassy Evacuated
ISLAMABAD: US Senator Lindsey Graham has issued a stark warning to Saudi Arabia, threatening unspecified consequences if the kingdom fails to engage militarily against Iran amid the escalating regional conflict.
The Republican senator’s comments came on March 9, 2026, following Iranian drone attacks that prompted the evacuation of the American Embassy in Riyadh. Graham posted on social media platform X that the embassy was being evacuated due to sustained Iranian assaults on Saudi territory.
He expressed frustration that Saudi Arabia, despite possessing advanced military capabilities, has refused to deploy its forces in operations aimed at dismantling what he described as the barbaric and terrorist Iranian regime. Graham noted that the regime has terrorized the region and claimed responsibility for the deaths of seven Americans.
The senator posed a direct question about the rationale for maintaining a US defense agreement with Riyadh. He argued that America should reconsider such commitments when an ally is unwilling to participate in a shared security fight.
Graham highlighted the human and financial toll on the United States. American lives have been lost, and billions of dollars are being spent to dislodge the Iranian leadership, which he accused of threatening regional stability. In contrast, he portrayed Saudi Arabia’s contributions as limited to public statements and marginal behind-the-scenes support, without direct military involvement.
The senator expressed hope that members of the Gulf Cooperation Council would increase their participation, emphasizing that the conflict unfolds in their immediate neighborhood. He questioned when, if not now, these countries would be prepared to use their militaries against the perceived threat from Iran.
Graham concluded by stating that he hoped for a swift change in Saudi Arabia’s stance. He warned that failure to do so would lead to consequences, without elaborating on their nature.
The statement reflects heightened tensions in the US-Saudi relationship during the ongoing war. The conflict intensified after joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran beginning late February 2026, which targeted key regime figures and infrastructure. Iran retaliated with missile and drone barrages across the Gulf, including strikes on US facilities and allies.
On March 3, 2026, two Iranian drones struck the US Embassy in Riyadh, causing a limited fire and minor material damage, according to the Saudi Defense Ministry. No injuries were reported from the incident, but it triggered immediate security measures.
The US State Department responded by issuing ordered departures for non-emergency personnel and family members from the embassy in Saudi Arabia. This marked an escalation from earlier voluntary advisories, signaling serious concerns over further Iranian reprisals.
Similar actions affected US missions in Kuwait, Bahrain, Iraq, Qatar, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates. The department urged all American citizens in more than a dozen Middle Eastern countries to depart immediately, citing risks from armed conflict, terrorism, and ongoing missile and drone threats.
Saudi Arabia condemned the attack on the embassy as a flagrant Iranian violation. Riyadh activated air defenses to intercept additional threats, though reports indicated persistent Iranian drone activity targeting Gulf states hosting US assets.
Graham’s criticism aligns with his long-standing advocacy for aggressive action against Iran. He has repeatedly called for regime change, predicting that the fall of the current leadership would pave the way for regional peace, including potential normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel.
Earlier in the conflict, Graham met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss support for operations against Iran. While the kingdom has not vehemently opposed US efforts, it has avoided direct offensive participation, focusing on defensive measures and diplomatic statements.
The senator’s remarks have sparked debate over alliance dynamics. Gulf states, major purchasers of US weapons, face pressure to contribute more actively as Iranian strikes disrupt oil exports and regional stability.
Oil prices have surged amid fears of prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz. The war has already caused significant economic ripple effects, with airspace closures and flight cancellations stranding civilians.
US officials, including President Donald Trump, have described the campaign as limited but potentially extending for weeks. Defense leaders have emphasized objectives centered on neutralizing Iran’s ability to threaten the region and its allies.
Graham’s post has drawn attention for its blunt tone toward a key US partner. It underscores divisions within the anti-Iran coalition, where expectations for shared burden often clash with national priorities.
Observers note that Saudi Arabia’s cautious approach stems from concerns over escalation risks and domestic stability. The kingdom has invested heavily in air defense systems, including THAAD, but has historically preferred proxy or defensive strategies against Iran.
As the conflict enters its second week, calls for greater GCC involvement continue. Graham’s warning may intensify diplomatic efforts to align Gulf policies more closely with US objectives.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing strikes and retaliations raising the stakes for all parties involved.