The conflict between Israel and Hamas has been ongoing for more than a month, showing no signs of abating. However, a significant diplomatic development has emerged as Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi arrived in Saudi Arabia for a pivotal summit. This marks the first visit by an Iranian president to Saudi Arabia in 11 years, and it could hold substantial implications for the Middle East.
Diplomatic Efforts for Regional Peace:
Before departing from Tehran to Riyadh, President Raisi emphasized the need for actions, not just words, to address the crisis in Gaza. He highlighted the importance of unity among Islamic nations in the current context. Accompanying Raisi, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian stressed that the summit in Saudi Arabia would send a strong message to those perpetuating conflict and may lead to a resolution of the Gaza crisis.
American Involvement and Its Contradictions:
Addressing the conflict, Raisi pointed out the contradictions in American policy, noting that the U.S. claims to oppose the expansion of the war while having military capabilities in Gaza that can either hinder or extend the conflict. He urged the world to see the true face of American actions in the region.
Recent Reconciliation between Iran and Saudi Arabia:
Notably, Saudi Arabia and Iran reconciled earlier this year, ending a seven-year-long rupture in diplomatic relations. With mediation from China, the two nations reached an agreement that is viewed as a peace accord in the context of the Middle East.
Islamic Cooperation Organization Summit:
The summit taking place in Saudi Arabia is organized by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and comprised of 57 Muslim-majority countries. The participation of both Iranian and Saudi leaders in this OIC summit is a significant diplomatic breakthrough, raising hopes for regional peace.
The visit of Iranian President Raisi to Saudi Arabia amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict represents a remarkable shift in diplomatic dynamics in the Middle East. It is anticipated that this summit, organized by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, will send a strong message against those perpetuating violence and could potentially contribute to the resolution of the Gaza crisis. Furthermore, the recent reconciliation between Iran and Saudi Arabia sets a promising precedent for regional peace and stability.
