Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan indicated that his country was concerned about the possibility of a renewal of the nuclear deal between Western powers and Iran, especially regarding inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency. However, he stressed that “even a ‘bad’ deal is better than no deal,” stressing that “there are still differences with Iran that currently prevent him from meeting his Iranian counterpart,” but said, “Of course, we have there is an intention to build positive relations with our neighbors in Iran.”

Regarding Ukraine, he noted in an interview with France 24 on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York that “Riyadh has long been working behind the scenes on this week’s prisoner exchange between Russians, Ukrainians and many Westerners,” showing that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was in contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin and was ready to help with additional mediation efforts.

In addition, bin Farhan stressed: “The truce in Yemen, which was agreed in April and extended twice, is unlikely to be extended again after the October 2 renewal date. He blamed the Houthis for a possible return to war.”