Saudi Arabia and Iran Hold Joint Naval Exercises in Sea of Oman Amid Renewed Diplomatic Ties

Saudi Arabia and Iran have made a significant move in their geopolitical relationship, according to a statement from the Saudi defence ministry. They recently participated in joint military exercises in the Sea of Oman.

This marks a significant step in improving relations between the two Middle Eastern rivals. They resumed diplomatic ties last year under a China-brokered agreement after severing them in 2016.

Brigadier General Turki al-Malki confirmed the completion of the exercises, stating, “The Royal Saudi Naval Forces had recently concluded a joint naval exercise with the Iranian Naval Forces alongside other countries in the Sea of Oman.”

The announcement follows reports from Iran’s official news agency, ISNA, which mentioned that the two nations are planning additional military drills in the Red Sea.

Admiral Shahram Irani, commander of Iran’s navy, noted that Saudi Arabia had requested joint exercises in the Red Sea. However, Maliki clarified that no further exercises are scheduled at this time.

This development occurred when Iran participated in another military drill in the northern Indian Ocean alongside Russia, Oman, and six observer countries, including Saudi Arabia.