Senator Lindsey Graham has publicly called on Saudi Arabia to “knock it off”, issuing a pointed message to Riyadh amid escalating tensions over regional security and diplomatic policy.

In remarks delivered during a media appearance in Washington, Graham expressed frustration with elements of Saudi decision-making that he argued risk undermining broader US strategic interests in the Middle East.

While reaffirming the longstanding security partnership between the two countries, he said certain actions required reassessment and urged Saudi leaders to align more closely with American priorities.

The comments come at a sensitive moment in US–Saudi relations, which have been shaped in recent years by energy market coordination, defence cooperation and shifting regional alliances.

Differences have periodically surfaced over oil production policy, engagement with rival powers and approaches to conflicts across the region.

Graham, a senior Republican voice on foreign policy and a close ally of former President Donald Trump, framed his remarks as a candid warning rather than a rupture.

He emphasised that the bilateral relationship remains strategically significant, particularly in counterterrorism cooperation and efforts to stabilise global energy markets.

Saudi officials have not immediately issued a detailed public response to the senator’s comments.

Analysts note that disagreements between Washington lawmakers and Riyadh are not uncommon, especially during periods of geopolitical recalibration.

Despite the sharp language, diplomatic channels between the two governments remain active, with ongoing coordination on regional security, defence procurement and economic investment.

Observers say the episode underscores the delicate balance between political messaging in Washington and the enduring strategic ties that underpin US–Saudi relations.