Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman flew to Tehran on Thursday, carrying a $1 billion package on a Hercules transport aircraft, and presented it to Iranian officials as part of a secret deal to halt Houthi attacks on Saudi infrastructure.
The proposal, reported by Israel Hayom and sourced from Gulf diplomatic channels, seeks to provide the Houthis with funds to rebuild civilian infrastructure and pay public‑sector wages in Houthi‑controlled territories, in exchange for a full ceasefire.
In the meeting, Iran’s president, the Supreme National Security Council, and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps representatives sat beside Saudi officials alongside delegates from Pakistan’s army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir and Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin; both allies have so far limited their response to advisory roles rather than active combat support.
Saudi Foreign Minister said the visit was part of the kingdom’s ongoing efforts to de‑escalate tensions, encouraging dialogue and supporting mediation by Qatar and Pakistan, and that the proposal aligns with the Mecca Joint Defence Alliance’s objectives.
The Houthi strikes have already caused the closure of Riyadh airport for days, postponed a major investment conference, and inflicted significant financial damage on Saudi oil infrastructure, underscoring the urgency of a resolution.
The foreign ministry added that the proposal is currently under review by the Saudi cabinet, with a decision expected in the coming weeks.