Saudi Arabia is considering mediating talks between the Trump administration and Iran to negotiate a new nuclear deal. The kingdom is concerned about Iran’s nuclear ambitions post the weakening of its regional proxies. Improved relations with Iran and reduced tensions provide a backdrop for Riyadh’s diplomatic efforts, highlighting both nations’ potential willingness for engagement despite mixed signals from Tehran.
Saudi Arabia has expressed a willingness to mediate discussions between the Trump administration and Iran regarding a new nuclear agreement aimed at controlling Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. This initiative arises from concerns that Iran may pursue a nuclear weapon following the weakening of its regional proxies, which traditionally acted as a defense against Israel. The kingdom seeks to utilize its strong ties with President Trump to foster a diplomatic dialogue with Iran.
While it remains uncertain whether Saudi Arabia has officially proffered its assistance, this move highlights Riyadh’s ambition to enhance its relations with Iran and secure an influential role in potential negotiations. Although President Trump has indicated a desire to initiate talks, responses from Iran have varied, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei deeming negotiations with the United States as “not smart.”
Saudi Arabia previously endorsed the 2015 nuclear pact between Iran and global powers, yet privately harbored grievances regarding the Obama administration’s neglect of its concerns about Iran’s missile program and its regional activities, which Riyadh considers destabilizing. Following Trump’s withdrawal from the agreement in 2018, Saudi Arabia faced significant security threats, notably a devastating drone attack on its oil facilities, which were attributed to Iranian proxies.
However, tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran have notably diminished since a surprise normalization of relations facilitated by China in March 2023. Saudi leaders perceive this development as a strategic victory, citing a reduction in Houthi attacks and evasion of direct conflict amid broader regional hostilities. Over the past 15 months, the weakening of Iran-allied groups by Israel has significantly curtailed Iran’s influence in the region, further motivating Saudi diplomatic efforts.
Saudi Arabia remains committed to avoiding any military confrontations involving the United States or Israel with Iran and perceives a new nuclear agreement as a means to mitigate the risk of Iran developing a nuclear weapon. The kingdom’s current foreign policy is increasingly focused on economic interests, which it views as vital for national progress.
In light of his second term, President Trump has reiterated his desire for a new deal with Iran, though he has simultaneously maintained sanctions on the nation’s nuclear development. On the social media platform Truth Social, he commented on the exaggerations of potential military action against Iran and advocated for a peaceful agreement that would benefit both parties and incite a large-scale celebration in the Middle East.
President Masoud Pezeshkian of Iran, facing pressures within his reformist constituency, acknowledged the need for diplomatic engagement concerning the nuclear deal. Despite some openness to dialogue, Khamenei has been cautious, characterizing negotiations with the U.S. as lacking wisdom, though he has not entirely dismissed communication with Washington.
Experts note that Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy, while still strongly aligned with the United States, increasingly seeks to broaden its diplomatic avenues, demonstrating flexibility in response to shifting regional dynamics. Increased Saudi involvement in U.S.-Iran discussions may reflect an effort to distance Riyadh from Trump’s assertive policies toward Tehran.
As the intricacies of U.S.-Israel relations evolve, Trump’s controversial proposals could impact Saudi-Israeli normalization efforts. In the face of these complexities, Saudi Arabia continues to advocate for Palestinian statehood, asserting that normalization cannot proceed in the absence of it, establishing Riyadh’s diplomatic priorities in the region.
In summary, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a mediator between the Trump administration and Iran in discussions for a new nuclear deal, motivated by regional security concerns amidst a backdrop of improved Saudi-Iranian relations. Despite mixed signals from Iran, both nations appear to recognize the importance of diplomatic engagement regarding nuclear issues. Saudi Arabia aims to leverage this moment to further its own strategic interests, emphasizing the significance of regional stability and economic growth.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
