Saudi Arabia and Pakistan: Support for mediation between the US and Iran to promote stability
In a diplomatic move aimed at bolstering regional stability, His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, held a telephone conversation with his Pakistani counterpart, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar. The call focused on discussing Pakistan's mediation efforts to de-escalate tensions between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Historical background of tension
These talks come amid historically strained relations between Washington and Tehran, which have escalated significantly since the United States withdrew from the nuclear agreement (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) in 2018. The “maximum pressure” policy that followed the withdrawal led to the imposition of severe economic sanctions on Iran, which responded by escalating its nuclear activities and reducing its commitments under the agreement. This tension has negatively impacted the stability of the entire Middle East region, which has witnessed numerous security incidents in vital shipping lanes and attacks on oil facilities and military bases.
The importance of Pakistan's role in mediation
Pakistan, thanks to its good relations with both Iran and Western countries, plays a pivotal role as a potential mediator. Islamabad has sought on several occasions to mediate regional conflicts, leveraging its geographic location and historical ties. Pakistan's success in facilitating constructive dialogue between Tehran and Washington would enhance its diplomatic standing on the international stage and contribute directly to its national security, given its long border with Iran and its vulnerability to any conflict in the region.
Saudi support for de-escalation efforts
During the call, both the Saudi and Pakistani sides emphasized the paramount importance of diplomatic solutions and stressed their full support for all efforts and initiatives aimed at restoring stability to the region. The Saudi position reflects a strategic interest in de-escalation, which aligns with the Kingdom’s new foreign policy focused on diplomacy and dialogue, as demonstrated by the resumption of diplomatic relations with Iran through Chinese mediation. Riyadh recognizes that any military confrontation between the United States and Iran would have disastrous consequences for Gulf security and the stability of global energy markets, potentially derailing its ambitious development plans under Vision 2030.
Potential impacts on the region and the world
The success of this mediation will not only impact bilateral relations between the United States and Iran, but will extend to the entire region. A reduction in tensions is expected to calm the conflicts in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq, and pave the way for broader regional cooperation to address shared challenges. Internationally, reaching a new understanding on the Iranian nuclear program will strengthen the nuclear non-proliferation regime and ensure the stability of global energy supplies, serving the interests of the entire international community.
