Iran-Saudi Arabia Relations: Cautious Improvement

Iran-Saudi Arabia Relations: Cautious Improvement

dw.com

Iran-Saudi Arabia Relations: Cautious Improvement

Iran and Saudi Arabia cautiously improve relations after years of tension, driven by mutual interests and facilitated by China's mediation.

Indonesian
Germany
International RelationsMiddle EastGeopoliticsRegional ConflictNormalization
Iranian Foreign MinistryCarpoSwpHouthiDw
Mohammed Bin SalmanAbbas AraghchiAbed Rabbo Mansur HadiSebastian SonsHamidreza Azizi
What is the broader regional role that Saudi Arabia is seeking to play?
Saudi Arabia aims to act as a bridge-builder in the region, maintaining communication with all actors, while Iran seeks economic relief and improved security.
What is the current status of the relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia?
Iran and Saudi Arabia, long-time rivals, are cautiously improving their relationship after years of tension, facilitated by China's mediation.
What are some of the potential challenges or risks to the normalization process?
The normalization process is delicate and setbacks are possible. Underlying tensions remain due to differing religious interpretations and regional conflicts where they indirectly support opposing sides.
What are the key motivations of both Iran and Saudi Arabia in seeking to improve their relationship?
Both countries have mutual interests in improving relations. For Iran, it's about easing Western sanctions and boosting its economy; for Saudi Arabia, it's about reducing dependence on the US and achieving strategic autonomy.
What concrete steps have Iran and Saudi Arabia taken to signal their intention to improve relations?
The improvement in relations includes planned joint naval exercises between Iran and Saudi Arabia and a recent visit by Iran's foreign minister to meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.