Saudi-Iran Defense Ties Strengthen Amid Regional Shifts

Saudi Arabia and Iran have been strengthening their diplomatic and defense ties with high-level meetings and collaboration in various sectors, including economic and cultural fields, marking a significant reconciliation facilitated by China. A recent cooperative defense dialogue was underscored by a visit from Saudi Arabia's Chief of Staff to Tehran. Both nations are committed to enhancing regional peace and stability while condemning Israeli actions in the region. These developments underline a broader trend of regional cooperation and reconciliation aimed at addressing long-standing conflicts in the Middle East. India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also emphasized Saudi Arabia's role as a stabilizing force in the Middle East during bilateral talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, highlighting the nation's principled stance on the Gaza conflict. The diplomatic thaw signifies a move towards further stabilizing relations in a historically volatile region.