Was Al-Khidr a prophet or a wali (saint)?

Scholars have differed regarding Al-Khidr, whether he was a prophet or a saint. Ibn Taymiyyah inclined to the view that he was either a prophet or a follower of the prophets, emphasizing that if he were alive, it would have been obligatory for him to believe in Muhammad (peace be upon him) and to strive alongside him in jihad. And there would have been ample reasons to transmit such an event, which did not occur. Moreover, prophets possess a status and knowledge that saints do not. However, it is permissible for Allah to reveal some unseen matters to some of His saints as an act of grace. The correct view is that Al-Khidr died before the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him), and there is no religious benefit in claiming his continued existence.