Iran Calls for "Thorough Re-evaluation" of Gulf Relations Amidst US-Israeli War

Iran Advocates for Strategic Recalibration of Gulf Ties Amidst Escalating Regional Tensions

In a significant address, the Iranian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mr. Reza Enayati, has called for what he described as a "thorough re-evaluation" of relations between Iran and the Gulf nations. This plea arises in the context of the current volatile geopolitical landscape in the region, particularly the ongoing conflict involving external powers and its repercussions on regional security and stability. The Ambassador underscored that this deep introspection into bilateral and regional relationships is essential to pave the way for genuine prosperity in the Middle East, primarily by curtailing external influences that he contends are often the source of instability.

Regional Security Challenges and War's Ramifications

When questioned about the extent to which the current conflict might impact relations among regional countries, the Iranian Ambassador candidly acknowledged it as a "realistic issue," positing that the solution lies in recognizing the profound interconnectedness of neighboring states. In a written response, he elaborated that the past five decades in the Middle East have been marked by conflicts and challenges stemming predominantly from "exclusive internal practices" and an "over-reliance on external powers." Building on this analysis, the Ambassador extended a direct appeal to the six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), along with Iraq and Iran, to strengthen and deepen their shared bonds.

Reports indicate that since the escalation in February 2024, Gulf nations have been subjected to over 2,000 missile and drone attacks. These strikes have not only targeted U.S. military and diplomatic installations but have also impacted critical oil infrastructure, ports, airports, hotels, and residential and commercial buildings across the region. The United Arab Emirates, which normalized relations with Israel in 2020, has faced some of the most intense attacks. While other Gulf states have not been spared, their condemnations of Iran have been notably vocal.

Growing Discontent with the U.S. Security Guarantor Role

According to analytical and regional sources, there is a palpable sense of growing dissatisfaction among these nations with the United States, long considered their primary security guarantor. This discontent stems from the perception that these countries have been drawn into a conflict that does not align with their interests, and that they are bearing a disproportionately high cost for it. In Saudi Arabia, attacks, as per a statement from the Ministry of Defense, have been concentrated in the Eastern Province, a key oil-producing region, at Prince Sultan Air Base east of Riyadh housing U.S. troops, and the diplomatic quarter west of the capital.

Resumption of Saudi-Iranian Ties and Denials of Responsibility

It is noteworthy that relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, after years of rivalry and each supporting competing political and military factions across the region, saw a full restoration of diplomatic ties in 2023. In this context, Ambassador Enayati refuted Iran's responsibility for attacks targeting Saudi oil infrastructure, including the Ras Tanura refinery on the east coast and several unsuccessful drone attacks on the Shaybah oil fields near the UAE border in the desert. "Iran is not behind these attacks, and if we were, we would have publicly admitted it," he stated, without identifying the perpetrators. The Saudi Ministry of Defense statement did not attribute specific incidents to any party. Ambassador Enayati emphasized that Iran exclusively targets "American and Israeli objectives and interests."

Ongoing Communication and Aspirations for a Prosperous Future

The Iranian Ambassador detailed his close communication with Saudi officials, indicating that bilateral relations are "progressing naturally" across various domains. He highlighted the cooperative spirit demonstrated by Saudi Arabia in facilitating the departure of Iranian pilgrims from the country and providing medical assistance to those in need. Regarding Saudi Arabia's public stance against allowing its territory, waters, or airspace to be used for attacking Iran, the Ambassador mentioned that Tehran is engaged in discussions with Riyadh on this matter, though he refrained from disclosing specific details of these conversations.

He conveyed a clear message to the Gulf states that the current conflict is "imposed upon us and the entire Middle East region." He pointed out that for this conflict to subside, the United States and Israel must cease their attacks, regional nations should refrain from becoming entangled, and international security guarantees must be secured to prevent future tragedies. He concluded by asserting that "Only in this way can we free our hands to focus on building a prosperous Middle East."