Based on the provided reference, Iran is identified as having a relationship of intense rivalry with Saudi Arabia. While the reference does not explicitly use the term "enemy," it characterizes the relationship as one where the two countries "have often behaved as serious rivals" for influence, particularly in the Middle East and the Gulf area.
Understanding the Rivalry
The reference points to the roots of this significant rivalry:
- Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution: This event dramatically altered the political landscape of the region and is cited as a starting point for the heightened competition.
- The 1980-88 Iran-Iraq War: This conflict further intensified the dynamics between Saudi Arabia and Iran, shaping their interactions and competition for regional dominance.
This historical context illustrates the depth of the strategic competition between Saudi Arabia and Iran.
Key Aspects of the Rivalry
The relationship between Saudi Arabia and Iran is marked by:
- Competition for Influence: Both nations are major powers in the Middle East, vying for political, economic, and religious influence across the region.
- Proxy Conflicts: The rivalry often plays out through support for opposing sides in conflicts in countries like Yemen, Syria, and Lebanon.
- Differing Regional Visions: They hold fundamentally different perspectives on regional security, governance, and alliances.
While the reference specifically highlights the historical behavior as "serious rivals," this description aligns with a relationship often characterized by hostility and conflicting interests.
