Geopolitics in the Gulf region has surprised observers this year. China emerged as a mediator between Iran and its Gulf Arab neighbours, resulting in the Saudi-Iran agreement, announced in March 2023, which restores diplomatic relations between Tehran and Riyadh, and fans hopes for peace in Yemen.
This breakthrough raises a host of questions about prospects for progress in Iranian-Gulf ties, the influence of the United States, China and Russia across the region, as well as relations between Iran and Israel.
This paper considers how these recent developments could change trade and investment within the Gulf region, and the implications of the agreement on Gulf state foreign policies and engagement with the rest of the world.
Download our latest white paper to understand the regional role of the United States, the prospects for progress in easing regional tension, and whether there is any impact on the prospects of tensions tipping into direct armed conflict.
