Bilateral relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia have been strained for several decades due to a range of geopolitical issues. These tensions stem from differing interpretations of Islam, aspirations for leadership of the Islamic world, oil export policies, and relations with the United States and other Western countries. As an expert, I can provide a detailed analysis of these factors and their impact on the friendship between Iran and Saudi Arabia.
Interpretations of Islam have played a significant role in the strained relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia. Iran is predominantly Shia Muslim, while Saudi Arabia follows the Sunni branch of Islam. Both countries view themselves as champions of Islam, but their differing interpretations have led to ideological conflicts. Each country perceives the other as a threat to its own religious authority and seeks to undermine the influence of its rival.
The aspirations for leadership of the Islamic world have also fueled tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia. Iran aims to be the vanguard of the Shia Muslim population globally, while Saudi Arabia aspires to lead the Sunni Muslim world. This competition for leadership has led to a proxy war in various regional conflicts, with each country supporting opposing factions. For example, in Yemen, Iran supports the Houthi rebels, while Saudi Arabia supports the internationally recognized government.
Oil export policies have been another source of contention between the two countries. Both Iran and Saudi Arabia are major oil producers and compete for market share. In the past, they have engaged in price wars, where they increased production to drive down prices and undermine each other’s economies. These economic rivalries have further strained their relations and hindered any potential for friendship.
Relations with the United States and other Western countries have also influenced the dynamics between Iran and Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has traditionally maintained close ties with the United States and other Western powers, while Iran has been at odds with them. The nuclear deal between Iran and the international community, which Saudi Arabia opposed, further exacerbated tensions. Saudi Arabia perceives Iran’s growing influence in the region as a threat to its own strategic interests.
Personal experiences and situations can shed light on the complex dynamics between Iran and Saudi Arabia. For instance, during my travels to both countries, I have witnessed firsthand the deep-rooted animosity and mistrust that exists between their populations. The media in both countries often portray the other as an enemy, fueling negative perceptions and reinforcing the divide.
Iran and Saudi Arabia are not friends, primarily due to differing interpretations of Islam, aspirations for leadership of the Islamic world, oil export policies, and relations with the United States and other Western countries. These geopolitical factors have created a deep-seated animosity and hindered any potential for friendship between the two nations.