After the current war, Saudi Arabia should open a new chapter with Iran

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After the current war, Saudi Arabia should open a new chapter with Iran

Yes, if the current war ends, I believe that opening a new chapter between Saudi Arabia and Iran would be one of the most rational choices in the interests of Riyadh and the region. However, I distinguish between “a new chapter” and becoming an ally of Iran.

There are several strong reasons:

Saudi Arabia’s own security: Continuing hostility with Iran makes Saudi territory and oil facilities part of the conflict equation. The current war has clearly demonstrated that any large-scale confrontation in the Gulf can harm both sides. Recent reports indicate that the Gulf states have become increasingly interested in reducing the risks of conflict with Iran.

The Strait of Hormuz: If Iran retains significant influence over maritime traffic, Saudi Arabia will be among the countries most in need of a direct understanding with Tehran, because its economy and oil exports are linked to the security of the Gulf.

Previous experience has shown that rapprochement is possible. On March 10, 2023, Saudi Arabia and Iran, through Chinese mediation, agreed to restore diplomatic relations and end years of estrangement.

The next phase could be different from the past. After the war, the question will not only be, “Who won?” but also: How can we prevent a second war? Here, Riyadh and Tehran could become key parties in establishing a new Gulf security framework.

But there is an important point: Saudi-Iranian reconciliation does not mean that Saudi Arabia should abandon its relations with the United States, Turkey, Pakistan, or others. Rather, it would be better for Riyadh to pursue a policy of balance: security relations with several countries, while at the same time maintaining a direct strategic understanding with Iran.

Notably, Saudi Arabia signed a defense agreement with Turkey and Pakistan in August 2026, indicating that Riyadh is already seeking to diversify its security options rather than relying on a single party.

I believe the best formula after the war would be:

Saudi Arabia does not become an ally of Iran, and Iran does not ask Saudi Arabia to become its ally. Instead, the two sides agree not to target each other, to safeguard Gulf security and freedom of navigation, and not to use either country’s territory against the other.

If this is achieved, Saudi-Iranian relations could shift from competition and proxy conflict toward regulated political and economic competition governed by clear rules.

In my view, this would be one of the most important changes that could emerge from the current war.