Saudi Arabia and Iran have historically been regional rivals, divided by sectarian, political, and geopolitical differences. However, with shifting global dynamics and recent diplomatic thawing—especially following the China-brokered 2023 normalization agreement—opportunities have emerged for cooperation. If Saudi Arabia chooses to support Iran, it could do so in several strategic ways:
1. Economic Collaboration
- Trade Expansion: Saudi Arabia could increase bilateral trade, including non-oil sectors such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing.
- Investment in Infrastructure: Saudi sovereign wealth funds could invest in Iranian infrastructure, energy, or development projects in exchange for long-term strategic benefits.
- Tourism and Pilgrimage Facilitation: Improving pilgrimage logistics for Iranians visiting Mecca and Medina (Hajj and Umrah) can be a strong goodwill gesture.
2. Energy and Oil Cooperation
- OPEC+ Coordination: Saudi Arabia and Iran, both major OPEC members, could align more closely on oil production policies, stabilizing prices and avoiding unnecessary competition.
- Joint Energy Ventures: They could engage in cross-border energy projects, gas pipelines, or even collaborate on nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.
3. Regional Security and Diplomacy
- Yemen Conflict Resolution: Saudi support in pushing for an inclusive peace process in Yemen could open doors for Iranian cooperation, reducing regional tensions.
- Counterterrorism Cooperation: Sharing intelligence and aligning on regional anti-extremism efforts could help stabilize neighboring countries like Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon.
4. Cultural and Religious Engagement
- Interfaith Dialogue: Saudi Arabia can support initiatives to bridge Sunni-Shia divides through academic and religious exchanges, easing ideological tensions.
- Media and Education Cooperation: Joint ventures in education or cultural production can humanize each other’s societies and reduce negative perceptions.
5. Lifting or Easing Sanctions Impact
- Indirect Support via Allies: Saudi Arabia could lobby Western allies or regional forums like the GCC to advocate for easing certain sanctions on humanitarian or economic grounds.
- Humanitarian Aid: Offering aid during crises, such as natural disasters or pandemics, would send a strong message of solidarity.
Final Thought
Support from Saudi Arabia to Iran doesn’t necessarily mean full political alignment, but strategic cooperation can lead to mutual gains in regional stability, economic growth, and international diplomacy. As global powers shift and the Middle East rebalances itself, pragmatic engagement between these two giants could shape a more peaceful and prosperous future for the region.
