Saudi-Iran Relations Grow Closer as Israel is Sidelined, with China as the Key Mediator.

 What does the growing relationship between Saudi Arabia and Iran signify?

In recent years, Saudi Arabia and Iran seemed locked in rivalry, but recent Chinese led diplomacy has fostered economic and even military cooperation between the two nations. Saudi Arabia currently lacks other alternatives to Israel, making this new partnership with Iran particularly important.

For a long time, the world saw Saudi Arabia and Iran as fierce rivals. However, recently China has helped them work toward a diplomatic relationship. This new partnership was visible when Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. With Israel’s recent conflict in Gaza, stronger ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran have become even more significant in the region.

According to Ynet News, China’s involvement has been instrumental in easing tensions, while Israel’s actions have also pushed Saudi Arabia and Iran closer together. Their relationship, broken by seven years of conflict, is being rebuilt with care. At a recent Arab Islamic Summit in Riyadh, Iran’s representative sharply criticized Israel, a stance echoed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Why Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince is Warming Up to Iran.

In a discussion with Ynet, a Saudi academic mentioned that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is planning for both the present and future. At the recent Islamic summit, he took a firm stance against Israel, showing a strategic shift in Saudi Arabia's diplomacy. The reopening of embassies in both Tehran and Riyadh marks a new chapter, though both countries are proceeding carefully.

Professor Farid highlighted that Saudi Arabia’s bold diplomatic shift began with this embassy exchange and remains cautious yet determined. Advisors on both sides are well aware of each other’s strengths and vulnerabilities.

Dr. Yoel Guzansky of the Institute for National Security Studies observes that Mohammed bin Salman has grown significantly in power and appears more cautious in dealing with Iran. The summit also notably left groups like Hezbollah and Hamas largely unmentioned, as Crown Prince MBS looks to maintain a balanced approach while cooperating with the United States.