Asharq Alawsat runs an Agence France Presse piece based on an editorial from the Saudi Arabic daily Al-Riyadh which cautions that the US will not be permitted to launch an attack on Iran from Saudi Arabia. That’s good, as the US has no plans (other than contingency plans) to attack Iran from anywhere. While the US does see serious problems with Iran, including its meddling in Iraq, its nuclear ambitions, and its recent peculiar behavior in the Strait of Hormuz, the US does seek to work through diplomatic channels, including that of Saudi Arabia, to resolve the problems.

Saudi Cannot Be Launchpad for Iran Attack: Report

RIYADH (AFP) – A leading Saudi newspaper on Saturday ruled out any attempt by the United States to use the oil-rich Gulf kingdom as a launchpad for a possible war on Iran over Tehran’s disputed nuclear programme.

Two days before a visit to Saudi Arabia by US President George W. Bush, the pro-government daily Al-Riyadh said: “We refuse to be used to launch wars or tensions with Iran.

“This issue can be solved through diplomatic means and through dialogue,” said the paper which reflects the views of the Saudi authorities.

Bush on Friday began a four-nation Gulf tour as part of a Middle East trip to push for a peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians and rally the support of his allies in the Sunni Muslim oil monarchies against the “threat” he says is posed by Shiite Muslim Iran.

In Israel on Wednesday Bush warned that Iran posed “a threat to world peace” and should not be allowed to develop the know-how to build a nuclear weapon. Iran denies seeking to acquire nuclear arms.

“If the president wants to obtain the solidarity of all the Arabs… he must focus, rationally, on the most important issue which is the question of peace,” Al-Riyadh said.
…

Meanwhile, Arab News has an opinion piece by Tariq Al-Maeena expresses his doubts that Bush’s visit to the Kingdom will have much new to offer: A Matter of Credibility.

Arab News‘s lead editorial adopts much the same tone about the President’s ability to effect peace in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict: Editorial: Cynicism With Reason.