Iran and Saudi Arabia have announced joint military drills in the Red Sea, showcasing a potential thaw in their previously tense relationship. The commander of Iran’s navy revealed that Saudi Arabia had requested the exercises, marking a significant step towards cooperation between the two countries.
Amid warming ties, Iran’s Foreign Minister visited Riyadh recently for talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, further indicating a shift in their relationship. In 2016, relations soured after Saudi Arabia executed a Shia cleric, leading to the torching of the Saudi embassy in Tehran and years of frosty interactions.
However, in 2023, at a summit hosted by China, the countries reconciled and have since been working towards closer ties. Despite Iran’s support for the Houthis in Yemen, which battled a Saudi-led coalition for eight years, a truce has been maintained since 2022.
The joint military exercises in the Red Sea signify a new chapter in the Iran-Saudi relationship, highlighting the potential for improved cooperation and stability in the region. This move comes amidst broader diplomatic efforts to promote peace and security between the two influential nations.
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