Iran-Saudi deal: Chinese hand in changing regional order.

Byline: Dr M Akram Zaheer

SAUDI Arabia and Iran are very different in many ways, including their political systems, foreign policies, and social norms. Relations between the two countries have been strained for decades, largely due to their geopolitical rivalry for influence and power in the Middle East. They have supported opposing sides in regional conflicts, including Syria, Yemen and Iraq. Their conflict has been fuelled by sectarian tensions between Shia and Sunni Muslims, as well as their differing views on the future of the region. Iran has been accused of supporting Shia militias in other countries, while Saudi Arabia has been accused of promoting Wahhabism, an ultra-conservative form of Sunni Islam.

The rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia has wide-ranging implications for the Middle East and the broader international community. The rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia has been a major driver of instability in the Middle East. The two countries have been involved in proxy wars and conflicts in countries like Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and Lebanon, which have resulted in numerous casualties, displacement of populations, and humanitarian crises. The rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia has also fuelled sectarian tensions between the Shia and Sunni Muslim communities in the region. Iran is predominantly Shia, while Saudi Arabia is predominantly Sunni, and this divide has played a significant role in the conflicts and tensions between the two countries.

The rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia has led to a polarization of the Muslim world, with many countries aligning themselves with one or the other. This polarization has made it challenging to find peaceful solutions to regional conflicts and has further exacerbated tensions in the region. The rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia has significant geopolitical implications, particularly with regards to the balance of power in the Middle East. Both countries are major oil producers, and their rivalry has affected global oil markets. The rivalry also has implications for broader international relations, particularly with regards to the involvement of other global powers such as the United States and Russia. The rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia has had an impact on their respective economies, particularly with regards to trade, investment, and tourism. The conflicts and tensions in the region have affected economic growth, increased military spending, and strained government budgets.

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