Saudi Arabia has conveyed warnings to Iran not to attack its territory and has indicated it would respond with retaliation if attacked, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The diplomatic communications come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East region, where various conflicts and proxy disputes have strained relations between regional powers.

Saudi Arabia and Iran have historically been rivals in the region, competing for influence across the Middle East through various proxy conflicts and diplomatic initiatives. The two nations have backed opposing sides in conflicts in Yemen, Syria, and other regional disputes.

The sources did not provide specific details about the timing or method of the Saudi warnings to Iran, nor did they elaborate on what form any potential retaliation might take.

Both Saudi Arabia and Iran have significant military capabilities and play major roles in regional security dynamics. Any escalation between the two powers could have broader implications for Middle Eastern stability and global energy markets.