Saudi MBS spoke with the Kuwaiti leader about criticising Iranian strikes on Wednesday. Pakistani PM contacted him, calling Yemeni Houthi strikes on shipping 'unacceptable.'. In Washington, discussions centre on a planned nuclear pact between Washington and Riyadh. The pact is tied to Riyadh accepting Israel under conditions outlined by ex president Donald Trump. Iranian officials are examining how the talks might alter the balance of power across the region. Analysts note that the twin tracks of military talks and diplomacy has put the kingdom at the heart of regional diplomacy. Quiet channels between Saudi and US envoys have continued over recent weeks, even as blows and counter blows have led the news cycle. A western official said the nuclear file was now closely linked to the normalisation file. Around Saudi decision makers, the focus has remained on keeping the kingdom safe, rather than public messaging. Meanwhile, Iran is reportedly weighing responses if the US Saudi pact goes ahead, with an Iranian veteran warning of new pressure across the region.