Tehran, Riyadh improve...
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It is also worth noting that talks are underway between Iran and Saudi Arabia to establish security agreements, which include strengthening border security and increasing cooperation to combat terrorism. Preparations for this framework have reached their final stages.
On October 24, Saudi Ministry of Defense spokesperson Turki Al-Maliki stated that the Royal Saudi Naval Forces participated in a multinational joint naval exercise in the Gulf of Oman, alongside Iran. Furthermore, the two countries are planning joint military exercises in the Red Sea. During his meeting with his Saudi counterpart, Major General Baqeri formally invited the Saudi navy to participate in Iranian naval exercises next year.
The meeting between the heads of the Iranian and Saudi armed forces can be seen as a breakthrough in Iran-Saudi relations. Regional political and defense experts believe that increased defense cooperation between Iran and Saudi Arabia will help stabilize the region, which is considered a significant advancement for Muslim countries.
Historically, due to decades of rivalry and opposing stances in the region, military cooperation or joint exercises between Iran and Saudi Arabia were not possible. Since the end of the monarchy in Iran, external forces have exploited the animosities between Iran and Saudi Arabia. However, with China’s mediation, the two countries restored diplomatic ties on March 10, 2023. With the ongoing efforts to restore defense cooperation and plan for joint military exercises, the prospects for future collaboration have greatly improved.
The nature of the defense cooperation between Iran and Saudi Arabia is still in its initial stages, and its primary goal is to normalize relations and address shared threats. If this cooperation continues to grow, it could not only contribute to the stability of both countries but also benefit the entire Middle East and help counter the aggressive actions of a common adversary, Israel.