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We are a primary target for Iran... We do not want a war in the region, but we will not hesitate to deal with any threat.

Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud

Response to attacks on Saudi oil facilities, *Bloomberg* interview, 2019 · Checked on 2 March 2026
We are a primary target for Iran... We do not want a war in the region, but we will not hesitate to deal with any threat.

Analysis

In a Bloomberg interview conducted after the September 2019 drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman warned that Saudi Arabia is a "primary target" for Iran. He also stated that the kingdom does not seek war in the region, but will not hesitate to deal with any threat. Multiple reputable news outlets quoted the interview verbatim, confirming the wording and intent of the statement.

Background

On September 14 2018 and again in September 2019, Saudi oil processing facilities were struck by drones and missiles, which the Saudi government blamed on Iran-backed Houthi rebels. In the aftermath, MBS gave a high‑profile interview to Bloomberg, addressing regional security and the kingdom’s stance toward Iran. His remarks were widely reported as part of the Saudi response to the attacks.

Verdict summary

MBS did say Saudi Arabia is a primary target for Iran and that it does not want war but will respond to any threat.

Sources consulted

— Bloomberg, "Saudi Crown Prince Says Kingdom Is a Primary Target for Iran" (Sept 2019)
— Reuters, "Saudi Crown Prince vows to respond to any threat after oil attacks" (Sept 2019)
— The New York Times, "Saudi Crown Prince Says Saudi Arabia Will Not Seek War, but Will Defend Itself" (Sept 2019)