Iran and Saudi Arabia's Ongoing Struggle for Middle East Dominance

Over the past decade, the rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia has deeply influenced the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, affecting various regional conflicts and international alliances. This struggle has led to proxy wars, particularly in Yemen and Syria, where both nations have supported opposing factions, raising the specter of direct military confrontation. The situation escalated in 2019 when a drone strike on Saudi oil facilities was attributed to Iran, highlighting the tensions between the two powers. The U.S. has played a significant role in this dynamic, with the Trump administration adopting a confrontational stance towards Iran, bringing the two nations to the brink of war in early 2020. Despite President Biden's initial promises to prioritize human rights and reassess U.S. relations with Saudi Arabia, he ultimately continued to engage with Riyadh, seeking to strengthen alliances in the context of the war in Ukraine. His efforts to promote the Abraham Accords, aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and Gulf states, faced setbacks due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. While some regional conflicts, like Libya's civil war, have seen temporary ceasefires, these do not guarantee lasting peace. The political landscape remains fragile, with unresolved issues continuing to pose challenges. The Israel-Palestine conflict, in particular, remains a significant hurdle for regional stability, as the war in Gaza has underscored the complexities involved. Looking ahead, the outcome of the U.S. presidential election may influence future policies in the Middle East, potentially elevating the resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict on the international agenda. The interplay of these factors will be crucial in shaping the region's future dynamics.