Iran and Saudi Arabia are considering joint military exercises in the Red Sea, marking a historic collaboration between the two nations after years of rivalry and terminated diplomatic relations. Discussions are ongoing, although Saudi Arabia has not yet confirmed the initiative. This development occurs amidst rising maritime tensions due to attacks by Huthi rebels in the region.
Iran and Saudi Arabia are reportedly planning to conduct joint military exercises in the Red Sea, as per an Iranian report that has yet to receive confirmation from Saudi Arabia. This initiative marks a significant development between the two long-time regional adversaries, which had previously severed diplomatic relations in 2016. However, diplomatic ties were restored last year following an unexpected agreement brokered by China. Admiral Shahram Irani, the commander of Iran’s navy, indicated that Saudi Arabia has proposed that both nations organize joint military maneuvers in the Red Sea. He stated, “Coordination is underway and delegations from both countries will hold the necessary consultations on how to conduct the exercise,” but he did not elaborate on any specific timeline for these exercises. In the backdrop of this negotiation, the region has seen increased tensions due to recent attacks on vessels in the Red Sea by Yemen’s Huthi rebels, who are supported by Iran. These attacks are part of a wider campaign that the Huthis claim is intended to support Palestinians in light of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Saudi Arabia has been engaged in a complex strategy in Yemen, backing the internationally recognized government while also seeking to navigate a way toward de-escalation in the conflict following the Huthi’s aggressive actions against maritime targets. Despite attempts to secure peace in Yemen, progress has stalled in light of these recent aggressions.
The context of the proposed joint military exercises between Iran and Saudi Arabia is rooted in their historically contentious relationship. Both countries have engaged in proxy conflicts throughout the Middle East, supporting opposing factions in multiple regional disputes. Their severed diplomatic ties in 2016 marked a low point in relations, attributed primarily to their opposing roles in regional conflicts. However, the restoration of these ties in 2022, facilitated by China, represents a significant shift in their diplomatic approach. Recent attacks by Yemen’s Huthi rebels underscore an ongoing security challenge in the region, as they have been targeting maritime vessels. These incidents have influenced Saudi Arabia’s military and diplomatic strategy, as they work to balance supporting the Yemeni government while also seeking peace in the region.
In summary, the potential joint military exercises between Iran and Saudi Arabia signify a remarkable pivot in their long-standing rivalry, as both countries work toward improved relations post-2016. This initiative could also serve to enhance security cooperation in the face of recent threats in the Red Sea. However, the success of these talks and their actual implementation remains contingent upon diplomatic developments and regional stability.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
