Saudi officials are cautioning Washington that an expansive US strike on Iran could strengthen the Islamic Republic rather than weaken it, urging President Donald Trump to limit any potential action to high-level regime targets as the nationwide protest movement enters its third week.

A source from the Saudi royal family told Israel’s N12 network that Riyadh fears a broad assault would reinforce Tehran’s narrative that foreign powers are scheming against the country, a message the regime has repeatedly used to justify repression.

The official said an operation perceived as symbolic or unfocused could “achieve the opposite of any declared goal,” warning that the leadership in Tehran is prepared to exploit any external misstep.