Iran has announced plans for joint military exercises with Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea, a significant development in their relations after years of tension. While Saudi Arabia has not confirmed the announcement, military coordination is reportedly in progress. This development follows a recent visit by Iran’s Foreign Minister to Riyadh, with both nations seeking to strengthen their ties post-normalization of relations in 2023.
Iran has declared its intention to conduct joint military exercises with Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea, although the Saudi government has yet to officially confirm this initiative. During a recent statement, Admiral Shahram Irani, the commander of Iran’s navy, noted that the request for joint operations originated from Saudi Arabia. He stated, “Saudi Arabia has asked that we organise joint exercises in the Red Sea,” as reported by the Iranian news agency ISNA. Admiral Irani further elaborated that coordination between the two nations is ongoing, indicating that delegations from both countries are expected to engage in discussions to outline the details of the exercise, although he did not specify when these drills might take place. The recent announcement follows a visit by Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, to Riyadh, where he engaged in discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reflecting a potential warming of relations between the historically rival oil-producing nations. Diplomatic ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia were severed in 2016 following the execution of a prominent Shia cleric in the kingdom, which led to protests and the subsequent torching of the Saudi embassy in Tehran. Despite these earlier tensions and Iran’s continued support for the Houthis in Yemen, who have been engaged in conflict with a Saudi-led coalition since 2015, the two countries have taken significant steps towards normalization since their reconciliation at a summit hosted by China in 2023.
The announcement of joint military drills between Iran and Saudi Arabia marks a significant turning point in relations between the two countries, which have been characterized by rivalry and conflict for years. Historically, the breakdown in diplomatic relations in 2016 was sparked by sectarian tensions, particularly following the execution of Shia cleric Nimr al-Nimr by Saudi Arabia. This led to widespread anti-Saudi sentiment in Iran, damaging diplomatic ties. However, recent developments indicate a shift towards cooperation, particularly in light of ongoing geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East, including the conflict in Yemen and broader regional security concerns. The re-establishment of diplomatic channels since 2023 highlights a mutual recognition of the need for dialogue and coordination amid evolving security challenges in the region.
In summary, Iran’s announcement of joint military exercises with Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea represents a pivotal moment in their historically contentious relationship. Following a period of significant diplomatic estrangement, both nations appear to be pursuing a more collaborative approach, having normalized relations earlier this year. The calls for joint military drills signify a noteworthy development that could influence regional security dynamics despite ongoing tensions, such as those surrounding the conflict in Yemen. Continued dialogue between these two key players in the Middle East will be critical in shaping future cooperation and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
