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Iran-Saudi Arabia Rapprochement: A Cautious Path to Peace

Iran and Saudi Arabia cautiously improve relations despite lingering tensions, driven by mutual strategic interests and a desire for regional stability.

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Germany

International RelationsMiddle EastGeopoliticsDiplomacyConflict Resolution

CarpoSwpBricsShanghai Cooperation OrganizationHouthi Militia

Abbas AraghchiMohammed Bin SalmanSebastian SonsHamidreza AziziAbed Rabbo Mansour Hadi

What are Iran's strategic interests in improving relations with Saudi Arabia?: Iran's motives for rapprochement include relieving economic pressures from sanctions and mitigating the potential of an anti-Iran coalition between Arab states and Israel. They seek economic opportunities and improved regional standing.
What are Saudi Arabia's strategic interests in improving relations with Iran?: Saudi Arabia sees advantages in rapprochement with Iran, including increased regional stability and a potential end to the conflict in Yemen. They recognize that complete reliance on the US is unsustainable, so a resolution with Iran is beneficial.
What are the main reasons behind the recent rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia?: Iran and Saudi Arabia, long-time rivals, are cautiously improving relations after a deal brokered by China. However, disagreements remain, particularly concerning the conflict in Yemen.
What are the historical tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia, and how have these tensions manifested themselves?: Tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia stem from differing views on the political role of religion, exacerbated by the Iranian Revolution and the Arab Spring. Saudi Arabia fears Iranian influence, while Iran seeks regional leadership among Shia Muslims.
What role do both countries envision playing in the regional geopolitical landscape following the improvement of their relations?: Both Saudi Arabia and Iran aim to utilize the improved relationship to act as mediators in regional conflicts and maintain open communication channels. Saudi Arabia hopes to project itself as a key player in regional diplomacy.

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