Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan confirmed that talks between Saudi Arabia and Iran have started but remain in an “exploratory” stage.
“We have initiated some exploratory talks, they are at a very early stage,” he told AFP on Tuesday.
The kingdom’s top diplomat also voiced hope for Iranians realizing their interest in working with their neighbors positively to achieve security, stability, and prosperity.
When asked about the impact of the June 18 presidential elections in the cleric-led country would have on its regional policy, Farhan said it would be minimal.
“The role of the Supreme Leader is essential, so we do not believe that there will be any fundamental change in Iran’s foreign policy,” he said.
"Our understanding of Iran's foreign policy is that it's set by the Supreme Leader," he explained. "So we don't think there will be a substantial change."
Mohammed al-Silmi, who heads the RASANAH research center on Iran, said that the two states are still testing the waters regarding precursory “communication” and “trust-building.”
Saudi Arabia has repeatedly demonstrated its seriousness and desire to settle the conflict, Silmi told Asharq Al-Awsat, adding that unresolved positions inhibit the region’s growing interests.
Hostile media content released by Iran is ongoing. The chief researcher noted that no change was noticed, especially with Tehran supporting the latest controversial statements put out by the resigned Lebanese foreign minister.
Saudi Arabia is testing whether Iran, which is facing political isolation and stifling economic conditions, may adopt a new approach after reaching a conviction about the futility of any expected agreement that deals with its nuclear program without compatibility with its regional environment taking into account its concerns.
Based on that, Silmi concluded that no immediate developments are expected but predicted more relative de-escalation efforts after Riyadh having sent clear messages regarding its position on military operations committed by Iran-backed militias, like the Houthis in Yemen.
