In this memo titled Saudi Arabia vs. Iran and the Role of the USA,Jean-Francois Seznec argues that the Saudis have to talk to the Iranian leadership, reverting to the previous efforts of King Abdullah to work with Iran, and that they have no better choice than to actively support the P5+1 in their efforts to limit the Iranian nuclear program. On the other hand, they are also likely to continue, indeed step up, their support of the Syrian opposition – if only to improve their bargaining position with Iran and help to break the link between Iran, Syria and Hizbollah.
This article series is part of a project funded by the Norwegian MFA, and will consist of a total of 12 articles.