The Iranian Tasnim Agency reported that Al-Ruwaili will meet in Tehran with the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Major General Mohammad Bagheri, and they will discuss bilateral relations and defense relations.
Last December, Bagheri held telephone discussions with Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman, which dealt with regional developments, raising the level of defense cooperation between the armed forces of the two countries, and important issues in the Islamic world.
Last month, Iranian Navy Commander Admiral Shahram Irani announced that Saudi Arabia had requested a joint naval exercise with Iran.
Iranian media quoted Admiral Shahram Irani as saying, “Iranian naval forces are present in the Red Sea, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has expressed its desire to organize joint maneuvers in that region.”
He stressed that “the delegations of the two countries will conduct the necessary consultations on how to organize the maneuver.” He also explained that “both countries invited each other to visit each other’s ports.”
Iran hosted the “IONS 2024” naval exercises on October 18 and 19, in which Saudi Arabia participated as an observer.
Relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran have taken a positive direction since the signing of a joint statement regarding the restoration of relations in Beijing last April. Three months later, Tehran reopened its embassy in the Kingdom and appointed Ambassador Ali Reza Enayati as its ambassador in Riyadh. The Saudi embassy also resumed its work in Tehran.
Source: RT + Tasnim
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**Interview with Defense Analyst Dr. Leila Farzan**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Farzan. With the recent reports that Al-Ruwaili will meet Major General Mohammad Bagheri in Tehran, what do you believe the implications are for Saudi-Iranian relations?
**Dr. Farzan:** The upcoming meeting is a significant indicator of the warming relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran. It shows a commitment from both sides to enhance bilateral and defense relations, which is critical for regional stability.
**Editor:** Last month, Admiral Shahram Irani announced a request from Saudi Arabia for a joint naval exercise. How significant is this potential cooperation in military endeavors?
**Dr. Farzan:** Joint military exercises could mark a pivotal shift in their relationship, showcasing trust-building measures and a willingness to collaborate on security issues. It’s a departure from the previous decades of tension and hostility.
**Editor:** Given the historical animosities, do you think this rapid progress in relations is sustainable?
**Dr. Farzan:** It’s possible, but there are deep-rooted issues that could derail this momentum. The key will be how both nations navigate their traditional rivalries, especially regarding influence in the Islamic world.
**Editor:** As the Iranian Navy conducts exercises in the Red Sea, do you see this as a strategic move?
**Dr. Farzan:** Absolutely, the Red Sea is a crucial maritime route. Iran’s presence there, especially with the backdrop of potential joint maneuvers with Saudi Arabia, indicates an interest in demonstrating naval capability while pursuing cooperative engagement.
**Editor:** Lastly, do you think these developments could change the dynamics of regional politics, especially concerning U.S. influence in the Middle East?
**Dr. Farzan:** It certainly has the potential to reshape alliances and influence. If Saudi Arabia and Iran continue on this cooperative path, it could diminish the U.S. patronage narrative in the region.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Farzan. Now, we want to hear from our readers. How do you feel about the prospects of a closer military partnership between Saudi Arabia and Iran? Is this a step towards lasting peace or a troubling signal of shifting alliances in the Middle East? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
