Speaking at a May 12 news conference, Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Saud al-Faisal said that Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has been invited to visit Saudi Arabia. The announcement raised speculation as to whether the two regional rivals are willing to resolve their differences.

“Anytime that [Zarif] sees to fit to come, we are willing to receive him. Iran is a neighbor. We have relations with them and we will negotiate with them. We will talk with them,” said Faisal. He did not mention when or how the invitation had been extended.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian said May 14, “There has been no written invitation yet to the foreign minister of our country to visit Saudi Arabia. But a plan for the two ministers to meet is on the agenda.” He added, “We welcome negotiations and meetings to help solve regional conflicts, resolve misunderstandings and to expand bilateral relations.”

President Hassan Rouhani’s spokesman Mohammad Bagher Nobakht also said today, May 14, “Just as the views of the president have been stated before about relations with neighbors, especially Saudi Arabia, there is an intention and willingness to expand ties.” He added, “Saudi Arabia is a neighboring country [with whom] … strengthening of ties will be to the benefit of the region. This administration is willing to expand relations with Saudi Arabia to secure the interests of both countries and regional stability.”