The global diplomatic landscape is undergoing a transformation, with Saudi Arabia emerging as a pivotal player. On February 18, a crucial meeting between high-ranking officials from the United States and Russia is set to take place in Riyadh.
This dialogue holds immense significance, as it marks the first open discussion between the two superpowers regarding a possible resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war, nearly three years after the conflict began. The key question is: why has Saudi Arabia been chosen as the venue for such a critical meeting?
Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has established itself as a key global mediator. Whether it was the Iran-Iraq reconciliation, U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations, or now bringing the U.S. and Russia to the same table, Saudi Arabia has played a crucial role in major international crises. By hosting this meeting, Saudi Arabia is reinforcing its status as more than just an oil-rich nation—it is positioning itself as a diplomatic epicenter. Let’s examine previous high-profile agreements brokered under Saudi leadership.
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Relations between Iran and Iraq had remained strained for decades, with the two countries engaged in a brutal war during the 1980s. Even after the war, diplomatic ties remained fragile. However, in 2022, Saudi Arabia played a crucial role in bringing both nations to the negotiation table. As a result, Iran and Iraq strengthened their diplomatic ties and agreed on mutual trade and cooperation.
For years, the dispute over Iran’s nuclear program has been a point of contention between Tehran and Washington. The United States imposed heavy sanctions on Iran, while Iran remained adamant about continuing its nuclear program. The 2015 nuclear deal temporarily eased tensions, but after the U.S. withdrew from the agreement in 2018, hostilities escalated again. Behind the scenes, Saudi Arabia played a critical role in reviving the negotiations. Despite being highly sensitive, these talks saw Saudi Arabia’s mediation contribute significantly to diplomatic progress.
The Israel-Hamas conflict has persisted for decades, but in 2023, tensions escalated dramatically. Saudi Arabia stepped in as a mediator, facilitating ceasefire discussions. Collaborating with Qatar, the U.S., and Egypt, Riyadh helped push for an agreement on hostages’ release and temporary truces. Saudi Arabia, which has been working towards normalizing relations with Israel, remains actively engaged in backdoor diplomacy. However, despite repeated U.S. requests, Riyadh has insisted that it will not normalize ties with Israel until the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
Now, as U.S. and Russian diplomats prepare to meet in Saudi Arabia over the Russia-Ukraine war, it signals a strong vote of confidence in Riyadh’s ability to mediate high-stakes conflicts. Several nations have attempted to broker peace in the Russia-Ukraine war, but with little success. In 2023, Saudi Arabia hosted peace talks on Ukraine, attended by representatives from over 30 countries. While Russia did not directly participate, the conference was widely regarded as a crucial diplomatic initiative.
Several factors have contributed to Saudi Arabia’s rising role as a global peacemaker:
- Balanced International Relations: While Saudi Arabia has historically been a close U.S. ally, it has also maintained strong ties with China and Russia, enabling it to communicate effectively with all parties.
- Economic and Energy Dominance: Saudi Arabia’s economic power and control over global oil markets make it a significant player in international diplomacy.
- Influence in the Muslim World: As a leading Islamic nation, Saudi Arabia is a preferred mediator in conflicts involving Muslim-majority countries.
- Diplomatic Ambitions: Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has been actively working to enhance Saudi Arabia’s global reputation by engaging in peace negotiations and international diplomacy.
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