Iran’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia said Tehran may reassess relations with Gulf states amid the US-Israel war. He called for stronger regional cooperation, denied Iran’s role in attacks on Saudi oil facilities and urged an end to external military involvement.
Iranian ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Alireza Enayati (Image Source: Internet)
New Delhi: Iran has said its relations with Gulf nations may require a “serious review” in light of the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel.
Speaking to Reuters, Iran’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Alireza Enayati, said countries in the region must rethink their approach and reduce reliance on outside powers, reports Dynamite News correspondent.
“We are neighbors and we cannot do without each other,” Enayati said, adding that stronger regional cooperation is needed for stability and prosperity.
The ambassador suggested closer cooperation between members of the Gulf Cooperation Council along with Iraq and Iran. According to him, decades of instability in the region were partly caused by an overdependence on external powers.
The comments come as Gulf states face growing pressure from the ongoing war, which has affected energy facilities, airports, ports and other infrastructure.
Since the conflict began on February 28, Gulf Arab states have reportedly faced over 2,000 missile and drone attacks, targeting U.S. bases, diplomatic missions and key oil infrastructure.
The United Arab Emirates has been among the hardest hit, though several Gulf countries have been affected and have condemned Iran over the incidents.
Enayati rejected accusations that Tehran was behind attacks on Saudi oil facilities, including the Ras Tanura refinery and attempted drone strikes on the Shaybah oil field.
“Iran is not responsible for these attacks. If Iran had carried them out, it would have announced it,” he said, insisting that Iran is targeting only U.S. and Israeli interests.
Despite tensions, Enayati said Iran continues diplomatic contact with Saudi officials and described relations as progressing normally in several areas. He also acknowledged Saudi cooperation in helping Iranian pilgrims return home and providing medical support.
According to him, ending the conflict will require the United States and Israel to halt their attacks, while regional countries should avoid becoming directly involved in the war.
