Saudi Arabia is trying to mediate a new agreement between the U.S. and Iran to prevent nuclear development by Tehran. Concerns have arisen due to weakened Iranian allies and previous tensions following the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal. Trump advocates for a new deal, though skepticism persists among Iranian officials about his intentions.
Saudi Arabia is reportedly seeking to facilitate a new agreement between the Trump administration and Iran aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. This initiative arises from concerns among Saudi officials that Iran is increasingly inclined to pursue nuclear weapons, particularly as its regional allies have diminished, reducing their previous deterrent effect against Israel.
Historically, Saudi Arabia supported the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran but later endorsed Trump’s decision to withdraw from the agreement in 2018. Following the U.S. exit, a significant drone and missile strike targeting Saudi oil facilities occurred, with the Houthis claiming responsibility and the U.S. attributing the attack to Iran, although there was no military response from the United States at that time.
Recent improvements in Saudi-Iran relations have occurred, highlighted by the reestablishment of diplomatic ties in March 2023, facilitated by China. Nevertheless, Saudi officials now fear that further isolation of Iran might push Tehran towards developing nuclear weapons, prompting Riyadh to seek a new agreement.
Former President Trump has consistently called for a fresh deal with Iran since taking office again. His posts on Truth Social expressed his desire for Iran to thrive without nuclear capabilities, referring to exaggerated reports of U.S. military action against Iran, advocating instead for a Verified Nuclear Peace Agreement to ensure regional stability.
Nevertheless, skepticism persists in Iran regarding Trump’s intentions; Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian recently questioned the sincerity of Trump’s commitment to a new nuclear deal. Supreme Leader Khamenei has also characterized negotiations with the U.S. as „not smart, wise, or honorable,” though he has not dismissed the possibility of future dialogue altogether.
In summary, Saudi Arabia is taking proactive steps to mediate an agreement between the U.S. and Iran to prevent the latter from pursuing nuclear weapons. Despite past support for the nuclear deal, the dynamics have shifted, leading to new diplomatic efforts. As both Trump and Iranian officials express divergent views on negotiations, the region remains cautious about the potential for nuclear escalation.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
