Fayyad al-Ruwaili, Saudi armed forces chief, visited Tehran for talks on defense cooperation amid changing U.S. Middle East policies. This meeting emphasizes improving relations following years of hostility between Saudi Arabia and Iran, fueled by the Abraham Accords and discussions about ties with Israel. The meeting underscores a pivot towards regional stability and collaboration between the two nations.
On Sunday, Fayyad al-Ruwaili, the chief of staff of Saudi Arabia’s armed forces, embarked on a significant diplomatic visit to Tehran. During his stay in the Iranian capital, he engaged in discussions with Iran’s military leadership, specifically meeting with Major General Mohammad Bagheri, the Armed Forces Chief of Staff. The dialogue centered on enhancing defense collaboration and strengthening bilateral relations, emphasizing the role of defense diplomacy in fostering closer ties between the two nations. This visit is particularly noteworthy as it follows the anticipation of a second term for Donald Trump as US President, during which he has expressed intentions to promote peace in the Middle East. Notably, during his first term, Trump facilitated normalization efforts between Israel and various Arab states through the Abraham Accords, marking a shift in regional dynamics. Although Saudi Arabia has not yet established formal diplomatic relations with Israel, discussions regarding potential ties have taken place between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law. This evolving geopolitical landscape adds layers to the interactions between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Iranian state media reported that the two military officials explored numerous topics, including the advancement of defense diplomacy and expanding cooperation. Furthermore, the Iranian media noted a previous exchange between Major General Bagheri and Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, where they deliberated on regional developments and avenues for enhanced defense collaboration. Additionally, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian engaged in a separate phone conversation with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as reported by Iran’s Arabic-language network, Al Alam, although details were not disclosed. Importantly, the two nations reached a pivotal agreement in March 2023, facilitated by Chinese intermediaries, to restore diplomatic relations after seven years of hostility that had exacerbated tensions and conflicts across the Middle East, from Yemen to Syria.
The recent visit of the Saudi armed forces chief of staff to Iran signifies a potential thaw in relations between the two nations, which have historically been rivals. Tensions have stemmed from differing ideological stances and regional conflicts, particularly in areas like Yemen and Syria. This visit aligns with broader geopolitical shifts prompted by evolving U.S. policies in the region, particularly under President Donald Trump, whose administration encouraged normalization efforts between Israel and several Arab nations. The re-establishment of relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran may signal a renewed focus on regional stability and cooperation against a backdrop of international diplomatic efforts.
The visit of Fayyad al-Ruwaili to Tehran represents a meaningful step towards improving military and defense relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, reflecting a shift in regional dynamics. This development follows significant geopolitical changes and ongoing discussions about potential diplomatic ties with Israel. Ultimately, as both nations navigate their complex histories and relationships, this engagement may pave the way for greater stability and cooperation in a region long marred by conflict.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
