Saudi- Iranian tactics

(MENAFN- Arab News) It is heartening to note that the Gulf Arab countries are acting jointly to tackle Iran's dirty politics in the region. With the changing geo-strategic scenario the need for an Arab federation or union has increased manifold. The Gulf Arab leaders should expedite the process for the formation of the union. With the United States-led western bloc getting closer to Iran a joint Arab force is a must to maintain the balance of power in the Middle East. Had Iran not been promoting its sectarian agenda the situation would have been much different. The Arab leaders would have welcomed the US-Iran rapprochement. Unfortunately since the beginning of the so-called Arab Spring Iran has been continuously on the move trying to capitalize on the unrest in the Arab world. Ideally as a neighbor it should have helped the turmoil-ridden countries in overcoming their problems. Instead Tehran started to promote its sectarian policies to drive a wedge between Sunnis and Shiites in the Arab world for its political gains.

Of course in such a situation the reaction of the Arab world toward the US-Iran detente is very much natural. Otherwise the Gulf Arab countries are known for their generosity toward their neighbors and countries facing economic or social issues. Washington should also revisit its policies toward Tehran. Even the US officials and security agencies are aware of the Iranian policies in the region. Despite that the US is all set to lift existing sanctions on Iran. It would be a negative development as it would further embolden the Iranian regime. I believe that the US should link the nuclear deal with Iran's conduct in the region. Tehran should be forced to stop using its proxies in the Arab world. Rashid Ahmed Sultan Jeddah