This strikes me as something the Saudis would not want to be made public, or even speculated. First for political reasons. Second, and more importantly, is OPSEC, a.k.a. loose lips sink ships.
If there is cooperation, fine. But make it known only, and maybe, after the fact, and only with the consent of parties involved in the operation.
Correct. It could cost them terribly, possibly even initiate a coup. That would then remove the option, which would be very bad for Israel. Hence, for this newspaper to publish it is unbelievably stupid, even outright treasonous.
If there is cooperation, fine. But make it known only, and maybe, after the fact, and only with the consent of parties involved in the operation.
I think never is a better idea.
Israel can't do it alone. The distances are just too great, and they don't have the resources for an effective attack package, escort fighters, tankers, fighter protection for the tankers and support aircraft, SAM suppression, and keeping a reserve at home. However, if they gain access to an airfield or three as forward staging bases, and an ally that will fly support missions such as SEAD... Then suddenly striking Iran's nuclear facilities becomes very, very workable.
Why would the Saudis allow this? Several reasons. One, Iran is not Arab. There is contention between the Imams in the two countries over who should be viewed as the "leaders" of Islam. Finally, and most importantly, Saudi realizes that if an Iranian WMD goes off in a holy city in Israel, Israel will strike back and turn the Islamic holy cities of Mecca and Medina into glass-topped self-lighting parking lots. Mecca and Medina happen to be in Saudi Arabia, and the Saudis know they cannot stop Israel if they want to do that. The Saudis see themselves as the conservators and protectors of Islam and the holy sites - basically all other considerations are secondary. If that means helping Israel take a shot at Iran to set them back, so that Iran can't do anything stupid that puts Mecca at risk...so be it. The Saudis can be extremely practical and pragmatic when necessary. It's necessary.