Saudi, Iran Elevate Defense Diplomacy Amid Regional Shifts

Saudi Arabia's armed forces chief, Fayyad al-Ruwaili, visited Tehran to bolster defense ties with Iran. The visit follows Trump's election for a second term, with defense discussions marking a significant diplomatic move amid evolving Middle Eastern alliances post-Abraham Accords and the Chinese-mediated Riyadh-Tehran rapprochement.

The Chief of Staff of Saudi Arabia's armed forces, Fayyad al-Ruwaili, took a pivotal step in diplomacy by visiting Tehran to meet with his Iranian counterpart. The meeting aimed at fortifying defense cooperation, marking a significant gesture amidst shifting Middle Eastern alliances.

This remarkable encounter comes in the wake of Donald Trump's re-election, where his prior term saw the Abraham Accords being laid out, leading to unprecedented ties between Arab nations and Israel. Although Saudi Arabia hasn't formalized ties with Israel, discussions with Trump's aide, Jared Kushner, had hinted at potential future developments.

The visit, featuring high-level military dialogue, underscores a strategic move towards cooperation between Tehran and Riyadh. Following their agreement to restore relations through Chinese mediation, this interaction could pave the way for enhanced regional stability and defense diplomacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)