Iran and Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministers held talks on regional issues ahead of the OIC meeting, emphasizing their importance to diplomatic relations. Despite differing media representations, both sides are focusing on strengthening ties amid U.S. sanctions against Iran. The OIC meeting in Jeddah will address critical challenges facing the Muslim world as the two countries continue to reconcile their differences.
The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia engaged in discussions regarding regional developments just prior to the upcoming meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), as reported by Iranian state media IRNA. This interaction is deemed significant by Iran, evident from the prominent coverage it received in Iranian outlets.
In contrast, Gulf media exhibited a more cautious tone. For instance, Arab News highlighted a phone call made by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, during which they deliberated on regional issues and their ongoing efforts to address these matters.
Iran perceives Saudi Arabia as a crucial intermediary in light of recent sanctions imposed by the United States on Iranian oil-related entities and others linked to its drone and missile programs. Iran has sought improved relations with Gulf states, having also hosted Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani recently, underscoring its desire for diplomatic outreach aimed at mitigating tensions with Washington.
As per Iranian media reports, the ministers reviewed the latest regional developments and exchanged opinions regarding the agenda for the forthcoming OIC foreign ministers’ meeting, set to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The OIC, comprising 57 member states, seeks to reinforce solidarity among Islamic nations while addressing key challenges that impact the Muslim world.
Over the past two years, Iran and Saudi Arabia have worked toward reconciliation, receiving backing from China and Iraq. Historically, Riyadh has taken a strong stance against Iran’s regional actions, particularly its support for the Houthis. Recently, however, Saudi Arabia has been closely monitoring Iran’s activities, especially after Iran’s decreasing influence in Syria following the fall of the Assad regime.
In conclusion, the recent discussions between the foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia highlight the evolving diplomatic landscape in the Middle East. With both nations reviewing regional challenges ahead of the OIC meeting, their reconciliation efforts signal a shift from historical tensions, potentially paving the way for improved relations and collaboration on pressing Islamic issues.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
