King Salman backs hosting of more US troops in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s ruler has approved the hosting of more US military personnel in the Kingdom.

Iran Press/Middle East: Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry said on Saturday that King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud approves the move in a bid to enhance regional security in the face of regional threats.

Citing a Defence Ministry official, it said on its official Twitter account that “Based on the efforts to strengthen regional security and stability, and based on the joint cooperation between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States of America, King Salman has approved the hosting of more US military personnel in the Kingdom to increase joint cooperation in defence of regional security and stability and to preserve its peace,” Anadolu Agency reported.

The state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported the move earlier but did not provide details on the number of US troops that are expected to arrive in the Kingdom. 

CNN reported on Thursday that the US is preparing to send 500 troops to the country.

On 3 November, the head of Iran action group at the US State Department, Brian Hooke acknowledged US use of Saudi Arabia against Iran.

Speaking to reporters about sanctions against Iran and maximum pressure on Tehran, Hooke said: "The Saudis have helped our Iran strategy." 101/211/201

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