The leaders of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have been rejecting calls from US President Joe Biden for weeks, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing officials in the Middle East and the United States.

Expressions of displeasure from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and Emirati Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan came amid concerns from the two leaders over the US response to the recent missile and drone strikes from Yemen.

The two countries are also reportedly frustrated with the state of talks on a nuclear deal with Iran, according to the WSJ. They said the deal, which IAEA chief Rafael Grossi called very complicated, did not take into account the security interests of Saudi Arabia and the Emirates.

The US is pushing to restore relations with the two countries in an effort to overcome the oil crisis. Biden announced a ban on Russian oil imports on Tuesday, gas prices reaching historic highs around the world.

In addition, support from the Middle East oil giants is becoming increasingly important for the US to create a united front against Russia.

According to the publication, Saudi Arabia has long been frustrated by reports of worsening relations with the US since Biden was sworn in. As well as boosting support in Yemen, the Saudis are reportedly seeking help with their own civilian nuclear program, as well as clarification of MBS's legal position in the US in connection with lawsuits filed in connection with the assassination of Jamal Khashoggi.