Iran has announced joint military exercises with Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea, following improving relations after years of hostility. Admiral Shahram Irani confirmed Saudi Arabia’s request for these drills, with consultations underway. This comes after a recent diplomatic visit by Iran’s Foreign Minister to Riyadh, indicating a thaw in relations that had been strained since 2016. Despite this progress, Iran continues its support for the Houthis in Yemen, complicating the regional landscape.
Iran has announced plans for joint military exercises with Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea, although official confirmation from the kingdom has yet to be received. Admiral Shahram Irani, commander of Iran’s navy, stated that Saudi Arabia had requested the collaboration for these operations. He mentioned, “Saudi Arabia has asked that we organise joint exercises in the Red Sea.” The admiral further noted that discussions are ongoing and both nations will hold consultations to determine the details of the military drills, although no specific timelines have been provided. This announcement follows a recent visit by Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, to Riyadh, where he engaged in discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This visit signifies a thawing of relations, which had been strained since 2016 when diplomatic ties were severed after the execution of a prominent Shia cleric by the Saudi government, leading to protests in Iran and subsequent diplomatic fallout. Despite the historical tensions, 2023 has seen a normalization of relations following a summit held in China, facilitating the establishment of closer ties. It is noteworthy, however, that this rapprochement occurs against the backdrop of Iran’s ongoing support for the Houthis in Yemen, who have engaged in conflict with a Saudi-led coalition since 2015. A ceasefire has been in place since 2022, marking a significant development in the regional dynamics.
The current military collaboration between Iran and Saudi Arabia is a significant development in Middle Eastern geopolitics, reflecting a shift in relations between the two historically adversarial countries. Since the breakdown of diplomatic ties in 2016, relations have evolved, with recent discussions signaling a potential for cooperation. The broader context includes geopolitical factors such as Iranian support for proxy groups in the region and the long-standing conflict in Yemen, which has strained Saudi-Iranian relations. The normalization of relations following mediation by China indicates a potential new alignment amidst existing regional tensions.
In summary, the announcement of joint military exercises between Iran and Saudi Arabia marks a pivotal moment in their diplomatic relationship, indicating a willingness to engage in cooperation after years of hostility. While the operational details remain uncertain, this collaboration underscores a notable shift in regional dynamics and highlights ongoing efforts to stabilize relations between the two oil-rich nations.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
