Iran and Saudi Arabia are reportedly planning to conduct joint military exercises in the Red Sea, according to an Iranian report that has not yet been confirmed by Saudi officials. This development, if confirmed, would mark the first time the two regional powers engage in such a military collaboration.
Historically, Iran and Saudi Arabia have supported opposing factions in conflicts throughout the region, leading to significant tensions between the two countries. Diplomatic relations were severed in 2016 after a series of escalations, but a surprise reconciliation last year, brokered by China, paved the way for renewed ties between the Shia-majority Iran and Sunni-majority Saudi Arabia.
Iran’s navy commander, Admiral Shahram Irani, shared the potential for the joint military exercises during an interview with the Iranian news agency ISNA. According to Admiral Irani, “Saudi Arabia has requested that we organize joint exercises in the Red Sea.” He further elaborated that discussions are ongoing, with delegations from both nations working on the logistical and strategic details required to carry out the joint exercises. However, no specific details or timelines were provided regarding when the exercises might take place.
While Iran appears keen to proceed, Saudi Arabia has not yet officially confirmed or commented on its participation in any joint military drills with Iran. If the exercises move forward, they could signal a significant shift in the relationship between the two regional heavyweights, who have often found themselves at odds in the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.
The outcome of the planned consultations and coordination between Iran and Saudi Arabia remains to be seen, but any potential military cooperation between these former rivals could have far-reaching implications for the region’s security dynamics.
