Saudi Arabia has intensified direct talks with Iran in an effort to contain the widening Middle East war, according to European officials cited in a report. The discussions, involving security and diplomatic officials, are aimed at easing tensions as Iran expands missile and drone attacks across the Gulf region. Several regional and European countries are said to be supporting the Saudi initiative, though it remains unclear whether senior leaders are directly involved.

Iran has continued launching ballistic missiles and drones at Gulf states, striking energy infrastructure, civilian sites and military facilities. Saudi defenses intercepted multiple projectiles near Riyadh, while attacks in Iraq hit Basra airport and key oil facilities. Tehran has also severely disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route, sending shockwaves through oil markets and raising fears of prolonged economic fallout.

Frustration is growing among Gulf governments over what they see as insufficient protection and coordination from Washington following the outbreak of war between Israel and Iran. Officials from several Gulf countries have voiced concern about depleted air defenses and the heavy toll of Iranian strikes, which have killed civilians and foreign troops. Despite public restraint from regional governments, prominent figures have criticized the conflict’s origins and warned of lasting instability and economic damage across the Gulf.