Why Iran and Saudi Arabia making nice is a very big deal

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Why Iran and Saudi Arabia Making Nice Is a Very Big Deal

The Middle East has been mired in constant turmoil and conflicts for many years, and the relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia has been especially notorious. However, relations between the two countries appear to be shifting to a more cooperative direction. Diplomatic ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia, who have been archrivals in the region, are starting to become closer, making the development a very big deal. Here, we explore why the change in relations between the two nations is a historic event and how it could positively shape the future of the Middle East.

The Strained Relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia

The relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia had been strained for quite some time. Both countries took part in proxy wars in Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon, and Syria. Tensions reached a high point between both countries in the aftermath of the Arab Spring in 2011. There have been occasions in the past where repeated back-and-forth claim-counterclaim between both nations became so intense that it almost looked like a full-fledged military confrontation was in the making. Sectarian divisions in the region have made it difficult for both countries to mask their mutual disagreements and hostility.

Chilly Relations Turning Warm

The relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia has taken a turn for the better lately. It began with the reopening of land and sea borders between both countries in late 2020. Moreover, diplomatic ties between the two were restored, with the historic first visit of a Saudi diplomat to the Iranian capital, Tehran, in February 2021 after a break of four years. This is notable because any reconciliation between the two states has never been achieved in the region before.

How the Turnabout Is Making an Impact

The shift in the relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia is having positive impacts in the region. Here are a few expected impacts:

• Improved Relations between Iran and Other Nations: The warming of relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia could pave the way for Iran to make amends with other countries such as Bahrain, Kuwait and the UAE. This could help to bring greater stability to the Persian Gulf region.

• Resumed Trade Relations: Improved relations may lead to a resumption of trade between both countries. This could benefit the economies of Iran and Saudi Arabia, which have both been struggling from US sanctions and reduced oil prices.

• Reduced Tensions: Relaxed tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia could help to reduce levels of conflict and violence in the region. Improved stability could lead to greater opportunities for economic growth.

• Expanded Cooperation in the Region: Readmitted relations between Tehran and Riyadh could open the door to greater cooperation in energy, transport, trade and commerce in the region.

• Reduced Energy Prices: Repairing the ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia means that these countries should no longer compete when it comes to energy exports. This could lead to increased global supply of oil, leading to reduced prices.

• More Communication: Restoring diplomatic ties between both countries could help to identify common ground between the two and to resolve their differences through communication.

Why the Change Is a Big Deal

The recent thaw in relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia is a very big deal and the potential effects of the improved ties should not be taken lightly. For starters, the change in relations has never happened before and could pave the way for greater stability in the region. In addition, the warming of ties could help to reduce energy prices for global consumers, create more job opportunities in the Middle East, and accelerate economic growth in Iran and Saudi Arabia.

The Change Is Not Going to Be Quick or Easy

Although the newfound friendship between Iran and Saudi Arabia is a very big deal, the change may not be free from difficulties. For example, Saudi Arabia has never been fully supportive of Iran’s nuclear ambitions, which continues to remain a source of contention between the two countries. In addition, there is still a long way to go in resolving all of the disputes between the two, including how to find peace in Syria and Yemen.

The shift in the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Iran is a very big deal. The improved diplomatic ties between the two countries is a historic event, and the potential effects of closer relations should not be underestimated. It is still too early to tell how events will unfold, but it is clear that the announced warming of ties holds much potential for bringing peace and stability to the Middle East, improving global energy supply and prices, and boosting economic opportunities in the region.

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