Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged Israel to respect Iran’s sovereignty and avoid attacking the country, signaling improving relations between the two Middle Eastern powers. Speaking at an Arab and Muslim leaders’ summit, the prince emphasized that the international community must ensure Israel refrains from violating Iran’s territory.
This appeal comes amidst a broader diplomatic thaw between Sunni-majority Saudi Arabia and Shiite-majority Iran, who have been adversaries in various regional conflicts, including Yemen and Syria. After a 2016 break in diplomatic ties, Saudi Arabia and Iran made strides toward reconciliation with a China-brokered deal in March 2023. Their diplomatic outreach has been further demonstrated through high-level meetings and joint military exercises in recent months, as well as a renewed focus on peace efforts in Gaza following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel.
The evolving relationship between Saudi Arabia and Iran is reshaping the Middle East’s political landscape, presenting new challenges for international diplomacy, including former U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed expansion of the Abraham Accords. Experts suggest that if Trump returns to office, his regional strategy may face significant obstacles, given the changing dynamics in Saudi-Iran relations.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE