* Determined to avoid becoming further embroiled in the Middle East, the United States will push Saudi Arabia to take the lead in any potential military strike on Iran.
* But if Riyadh chooses to stage such an attack, it will have to contend with the consequences that the more credible its actions, the more significant Iran's retaliation could be.
* Ultimately, Saudi Arabia has the means to strike back, but it will find it difficult to insulate itself from subsequent Iranian counterstrikes.
* Accordingly, Riyadh will seek as much U.S. assistance and backing as possible before it proceeds.
Two weeks after a devastating attack on Saudi oil facilities at Abqaiq and Khurais, one major question remains up in the air: What are the United States and Saudi Arabia going to do in response? Both are attempting to make a compelling case that Iran was directly culpable for the attacks. With proof of Iran's guilt, they can further isolate Tehran diplomatically, potentially paving the way for an aggressive response.
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WNU Editor: Aside the rhetoric that is coming out from Riyadh, their focus is still on diplomacy .... EXCLUSIVE: Saudi Arabia gives 'green light' for talks with Iran (Middle East Eye).
