Analysis

China triumphs with Saudi-Iran deal, but devil in implementation

The deal marks a turning point in Middle Eastern politics, but China may find its role undermined by failures in implementation.
A man in Tehran holds a local newspaper reporting on its front page the China-brokered deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia to restore ties, signed in Beijing the previous day, March 11, 2023.
A man in Tehran holds a local newspaper reporting on its front page the China-brokered deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia to restore ties, signed in Beijing the previous day, March 11, 2023. - Atta Kenare/AFP via Getty Images
Benjamin Houghton headshot
Benjamin Houghton
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China’s role in the Saudi-Iranian deal is momentous. However, Beijing may find that its relations in the region are undermined by failures in its implementation.

Last Friday marked a profound turning point in Middle Eastern politics. With the signing of an agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran to resume diplomatic relations and respect each other’s sovereignty, there is no denying that change is in the air. The question is: Will it last?

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