In an unprecedented display of cooperation, Saudi Arabia and Iran have conducted joint military exercises in the Red Sea, a shocking turn of events for the two former rivals. The exercises, titled “IMEX 2024,” were confirmed by both nations, marking a historic move for two countries that only recently reestablished diplomatic ties following years of tension.
The exercises, led by the Iranian and Saudi navies, aim to bolster “collective security in the region,” according to Iran’s Admiral Shahram Irani. Both countries confirmed the participation of Saudi forces, with Saudi Defense Ministry spokesperson Brigadier General Turki al-Malki noting, “The Royal Saudi Naval Forces had recently concluded a joint naval exercise with the Iranian Naval Forces alongside other countries in the Sea of Oman.”
Since reestablishing diplomatic relations in 2023 with China’s mediation, Saudi Arabia and Iran have gradually moved closer, joining hands in regional security and commerce while distancing themselves from long-standing US alliances. IMEX 2024 follows a series of Iran-led exercises with Russia and China, with Saudi Arabia participating as an observer earlier this year.
This remarkable shift comes as Saudi Arabia leans away from its traditional security dependence on the US, opting instead for growing partnerships with China and Russia. Riyadh’s involvement in BRICS further illustrates this pivot, as the oil-rich nation forges deeper ties with non-Western allies and sets its sights on diversifying its alliances.
In a region marked by strategic rivalries, this Red Sea naval exercise signals a powerful change—one that may reshape the Middle East’s geopolitical landscape. As Saudi Arabia and Iran set aside historical hostilities to pursue mutual security and economic goals, will this newfound partnership bring stability or stir more complex rivalries in the region?
