The Digest: Saudi Arabia has expelled five Iranian diplomats, including the military attaché and assistant military attaché, giving them 24 hours to leave the country. The Saudi Foreign Ministry cited repeated attacks on civilian locations and energy facilities on its territory, including a recent drone strike on the US Embassy in Riyadh attributed to Iran. The decision comes amid escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Saudi authorities warned that the attacks violate international conventions, the Beijing Agreement, and contradict Islamic brotherhood, potentially damaging bilateral relations.
Key Points:
- The expulsion signals a sharp deterioration in Saudi-Iran relations, which had been slowly improving after the 2023 Beijing-brokered rapprochement.
- Iran's targeting of Saudi energy facilities and diplomatic compounds raises concerns about Gulf energy security and global oil supplies.
- The involvement of the US Embassy in the drone attack underscores the broader regional entanglement of US and Gulf interests.
- The 24-hour ultimatum reflects the urgency and gravity with which Saudi authorities view the Iranian threat.
- The decision may further isolate Iran diplomatically as Gulf states align more closely with US and Israeli positions.
Sources: Daily Trust
