In a historic visit, Saudi Arabia’s Chief of Staff, Fayyad Al Ruwaili, arrived in Tehran on Sunday for high-level military discussions with Iranian leaders. This rare meeting represents one of the most significant diplomatic exchanges between Saudi Arabia and Iran since the two regional powers resumed ties in 2023 under a China-brokered agreement.
During the visit, Al Ruwaili met with General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, at the Iranian Armed Forces General Staff Headquarters. This diplomatic engagement could pave the way for increased military cooperation between the Gulf neighbors. In a notable proposal, Iranian officials expressed interest in inviting the Saudi Navy to take part in joint Iranian naval exercises planned for next year, indicating a potential for expanded security collaboration in the region.
This visit highlights the improving relations between Tehran and Riyadh, which had previously endured decades of diplomatic tension and proxy conflicts throughout the Middle East. By engaging in military discussions and exploring joint exercises, both countries are now focusing on regional security and economic stability in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
The meeting is in line with broader diplomatic shifts across the Middle East, as neighboring countries seek collective solutions to longstanding conflicts and aim to stabilize the Gulf.
