The Relationship Between Iran And Saudi Arabia Since 1979

As the most powerful countries in the Islamic world of the Middle East, Iran and Saudi Arabia hold the balance in the region, the relations between which are punctuated with conflicts in history. After the Islamic Revolution of 1979 in Iran, Khomeini regime pursued"Spread-out-Islamic-Revolution"policy characterized by its intense Shiite religion in foreign affairs, which shocked Saudi Arabia the base camp of Sunnite. To meet the challenge, Saudi Arabia adjusted to its diplomatic policy, associating with other Arabian countries in the region to isolate Iran. This action inevitably deteriorated the relations between the two countries.Khamenei took office when Khomeini passed away on June 3rd, 1989. Khamenei used pragmatic diplomacy to improve its predicament on home and board, healing the trauma of Iran-Iraq War. Mending ties with Saudi Arabia became a prime option to Iranian government because of its enormous influence among the Gulf states. It is proved that the two countries benefit nothing from their diplomatic row. Meanwhile, Riyadh realized that it should make a good term with Iran, which could be favorable to its national interests. Consequently, Iran and the Saudi Arabia leaders have been keeping pragmatism in their foreign policy since the end of Iran-Iraq war.Under the background of globalization, China economy cannot take the Middle East countries aside for the rich oil and gas resources. As the biggest oil developing country in the world, China must keep a good relationship with Iran and the Saudi Arabia. Thus studying Iran-Saudi tie is rational to strategic interests of China in Persian Gulf.The thesis analyzes the Iran-Iraq relationship after 1979, finding out the roots which influences on it, and gives an outlook to the prospect of their connection.