In recent weeks Mohammed bin Salmanʼs unexpected statements left many scratching their heads: at nov-11 summit he spoke about Iran as a “sisterly“ nation and used strong words about Israelʼs actions in Gaza
The crown-princeʼs new position seems odd given his past stance — back in 2017 he questioned how anyone could talk with Iranʼs “extremist ideology“; yet now hes defending their sovereignty. After diplomatic ties got fixed (thanks to Chinaʼs help) early last year Saudi officials still kept their distance from Tehran
Before Gaza conflict MBS talked about Israel deal as a sure thing: it wasnt if but when. However recent events changed everything; the crown-prince now uses harsh words about Israeli military actions (which he didnt do before the summit)
Here are possible reasons for this shift:
- Getting ready to negotiate with incoming US administration
- Moving away from Israel due to public anger
- Focus on internal stability and mega-projects
The most likely explanation points to MBSʼs focus on home affairs — after several failed regional moves he seems to prefer keeping troubles outside kingdomʼs borders. His mega-projects (like new city Neom and Qiddiya tourism complex) need stable environment; working with Iran might help achieve that
This shift looks more like smart business than real friendship with Tehran: the crown-prince wants to protect Saudiʼs interests first. Its not really about moving closer to Iran — its about putting Saudi Arabiaʼs needs ahead of everything else