No More Casting Around within ‘Old World’ Alliances, but Time for “Hard Nosed Realpolitik” – A Lesson the Un- or Mis-aligned World Must Soon Learn

While Saudi Arabia has never been, in recent memory at least, a reliable partner for anybody, even the US or the West generally (I think they saw themselves as somehow above all that), it now appears the Wahhabi Salafists of that country have now finally (or most recently) realised the ‘non-future’ of reliance on that sector for their own security situation. The following quotes describe this latest turn of events – as reported by The Cradle…

“…hard-nosed realpolitik…”

“Riyadh is discarding illusions. Dialogue with neighbors – not alliance with Washington and Tel Aviv – is now the route to safeguarding Saudi interests. This is now about facts, not old loyalties. Iran is now a fixed component of the Gulf’s security equation.” – quotes from an unnamed senior Arab diplomat

‘Riyadh realigns: Tehran over Tel Aviv’ – The Cradle – July 8, 2025

I must say this is music to my ears, but will it stand the test of time? It must be said that their recent previous turn to BRICS and also to some rapprochement with Iran was a somewhat unexpected and watered down affair and, I think it is safe to say, they have been casting about in an internal struggle since then to determine a clear direction on which way to move forward. Recent events within the region and elsewhere must have played a deciding factor within their thinking. Who is it that have appeared to be the more rational and steadfast potential partners in these chaotic times? Who is rising? Who is fading? That they have now weighed all these things and made their decision, I think in some way adds weight to it being a more ‘final’ one. But actually making a clean break and firming a new position that will last, will require determination and visible commitment. I’m sure many will be watching, with intent.

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No More Casting Around within ‘Old World’ Alliances, but Time for “Hard Nosed Realpolitik” – A Lesson the Un- or Mis-aligned World Must Soon Learn

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