FROM regularly exchanging invective and clashing over geopolitical points of contention, the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Iran has warmed remarkably within the span of a few months. The newfound bonhomie was on display during Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian’s recent visit to the kingdom. Tehran’s top diplomat exchanged notes with his Saudi counterpart, and later met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the actual power behind the Saudi throne. The Iranian FM described his interaction as “productive” while Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal Bin Farhan hoped to deepen the relationship “based on our Islamic brotherhood”. The meeting between Mr Amir-Abdollahian and the prince was particularly cordial. Only a few months ago, such exchanges would have been unthinkable, as both sides accused the other of destabilising the region. However, thanks to a landmark diplomatic initiative piloted by China — and quietly supported by Iraq and Oman — Riyadh and Tehran are now building positive ties based on mutual respect and regional integration.

As it has been stated before in these columns, Saudi-Iranian rapprochement will have a calming effect across the Muslim world, especially where sectarian tensions have been high, such as in Iraq, Lebanon, Bahrain and Pakistan. Moreover, the brutal war in Yemen, where both sides support opposing parties, can also be wound down; already levels of violence have come down since the Saudis and Iranians started talking. Both capitals should work to resolve territorial issues in the region through local mechanisms. For example, Iran has a long-running spat over a few Gulf islands with the UAE, and is also embroiled in a dispute with Saudi Arabia and Kuwait over a gas field in the same region. These differences need to be resolved amicably to help strengthen the peace process. Riyadh has extended an invitation to the Iranian president to visit the kingdom; such a trip by Ebrahim Raisi would further strengthen ties. While it is true that over four decades of mutual hostility will not disappear overnight, things appear to be moving in the right direction. But both sides need to be wary of spoilers, as the US will not be pleased that the Saudis are negotiating independently with their arch-foe, while Israel, which has invested much in the so-called Abraham Accords to win over the Arabs, may resort to its expertise in sabotage to sink the fledgling peace process.

Published in Dawn, August 21st, 2023