Iran has announced that Saudi Arabia will participate in joint military exercises in the Red Sea, representing a historic first since the resumption of diplomatic relations after years of rivalry. The details of the drills have not been confirmed by Saudi Arabia, which has navigated its stance cautiously amidst ongoing regional conflicts, including the Israel-Hamas war and Houthi attacks.
Iran has announced that Saudi Arabia will participate in joint military exercises in the Red Sea, marking a significant development in the relationship between the two nations, which have only recently restored diplomatic ties after years of rivalry. Admiral Shahram Irani, the commander of the Islamic Republic’s navy, indicated that Saudi Arabia had reached out to Tehran to coordinate these military drills. However, further details regarding the timing of the exercises have not been disclosed. Iran has been conducting military drills with Russia and Oman since last weekend, suggesting an active regional military presence. As of now, Saudi Arabia has not publicly confirmed its participation in the upcoming drills. Historically, Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a counterweight to Iran’s influence in the Middle East, often supporting factions opposed to Iran’s geopolitical ambitions. The diplomatic relationship between these two countries deteriorated in 2016, but a surprise reconciliation occurred in 2023, facilitated by Chinese mediation. Saudi Arabia has adopted a cautious stance with regard to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, advocating for a cease-fire yet refraining from joining the US-European naval coalition aimed at safeguarding maritime traffic from Houthi rebel attacks in the Red Sea. The Houthis, based in Yemen, have escalated their assaults on both military and commercial vessels amidst rising tensions in the region. Simultaneously, Iran has intensified its military collaborations in the region, conducting joint exercises described as “IMEX 2024” with Russia and Oman. These drills, which began recently in the Indian Ocean, are purportedly designed to enhance collective security, foster multilateral cooperation, and demonstrate the capabilities of these nations to maintain peace and maritime security. Notably, Iran has organized five joint military exercises involving Russia and China since March, which Saudi Arabia was invited to observe.
The relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia has been characterized by decades of tension, largely driven by geopolitical and sectarian differences. The two nations have often found themselves on opposite sides of conflicts and have supported rival factions throughout the Middle East. Their severed diplomatic ties in 2016 highlighted the extent of their rivalry; however, the resumption of relations in 2023, mediated by China, has opened the door for potential cooperation, particularly in areas concerning regional security. Developments such as joint military exercises may signal a shift towards greater partnership, despite their historical differences.
The proposed joint military exercises between Iran and Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea represent a notable thaw in relations between the two historically antagonistic nations. With the revival of diplomatic ties and the backdrop of increasing regional tensions, particularly from Houthi threats, these drills could serve as a platform for enhanced cooperation and dialogue. The future of such collaborative efforts remains uncertain, as confirmed participation from Saudi Arabia is still awaited.
Original Source: nypost.com
