Saudi Arabia Seeks Mediation Between Trump and Iran for New Nuclear Deal
Saudi Arabia is considering mediation between the Trump administration and Iran to secure a new nuclear agreement, driven by concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its weakened proxies. While the desire for a deal exists, tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia may hinder substantial progress. Trump has expressed optimism about negotiating while Iran’s response remains cautious.
Saudi Arabia has expressed its willingness to mediate between the Trump administration and Iran with the aim of establishing a new agreement that would restrict Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The Saudi leadership is worried about Iran’s potential pursuit of nuclear weapons, especially as Iran’s regional proxies—which have traditionally served as a deterrent against Israel—have been significantly diminished. Leveraging its relationship with President Trump, Saudi Arabia hopes to create a diplomatic channel for Iran’s engagement with the United States.
While it remains uncertain if a formal mediation proposal has been presented by Saudi Arabia, this initiative indicates the kingdom’s intent to capitalize on its improved relations with Iran and position itself at the forefront of negotiations for a revised nuclear accord. Despite President Trump expressing interest in new talks, Iran’s response has been inconsistent, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei recently deeming talks with the U.S. as unwise.
Saudi Arabia, although publicly supportive of the 2015 nuclear deal agreed upon by Iran and global powers, privately expressed discontent regarding the Obama administration’s inadequate attention to its security concerns regarding Iran’s missile program and regional influence through proxy groups. The kingdom welcomed Trump’s withdrawal from the agreement in 2018, but faced a serious security breach a year later when Iranian-backed Houthi attacks severely impacted its oil production.
Tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia have gradually subsided, especially after a surprising normalization of relations through a China-mediated agreement earlier in 2023. Saudi officials believe this development is a success, as it has led to a cessation of Houthi attacks and spared the kingdom from being embroiled in recent Israeli-Iranian hostilities. With Iranian allies weakened in the region, Saudi Arabia perceives a favorable opportunity to decrease tensions and reaffirm friendships.
The kingdom views a potential nuclear agreement as vital to preventing a more cornered Iran from pursuing nuclear armament. Acknowledging that a destabilized Iran does not align with Saudi Arabia’s interests, Riyadh is recalibrating its foreign strategy to emphasize economic advancement, while prioritizing stability in the region.
President Trump has reiterated his desire to broker a new nuclear deal, insisting on the need for Iran to prosper without a nuclear weapon. He stated, “I want Iran to be a great and successful Country, but one that cannot have a Nuclear Weapon,” advocating for immediate negotiations to achieve a renewed peace agreement.
Iran’s economy is significantly weakened due to U.S. sanctions, placing immense pressure on President Masoud Pezeshkian to address various pressing issues within the country. Although he has shown a willingness to engage in negotiations, skepticism persists, especially following Khamenei’s dismissal of talks with the U.S. as unwise, though communication has not been outright prohibited.
Experts suggest that while Saudi Arabia seeks to mediate between the U.S. and Iran, the historical mistrust between the two nations may limit any substantial progress. Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s influence over U.S. policy remains strong despite complexities arising from regional dynamics and Israeli relations. Recent discussions surrounding Saudi-Israeli normalization underscore the delicate balance that Riyadh must maintain amid evolving political agendas.
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s willingness to mediate between the Trump administration and Iran reflects a strategic initiative aimed at fostering dialogue and achieving a new nuclear agreement. While the evolving regional landscape has created prospects for improved relations, a complicated web of historical distrust, economic pressures, and political agendas continues to challenge meaningful progress. The kingdom remains focused on securing its interests through diplomacy while promoting stability in the region.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
