Iran's President Raisi Discusses Diplomatic Relations with Saudi Arabia and Egypt

In a recent television interview, Iranian President, Ibrahim Raisi confirmed the existence of disputes between his country and Saudi Arabia, swiftly adding that "Saudi Arabia is not at all an enemy to Tehran, but rather Israel and America". Raisi disclosed how diplomatic relations between Tehran and Riyadh were restored through a Chinese initiative. 

During his trip to Beijing, Raisi conversed with the Chinese President about Saudi Arabia's desire to resume relations, a proposition Iran also welcomed. He stated, "No one can deny the existence of disputes with Saudi Arabia, but they were never animosity."

Regarding Iran's position on renewing relations with Egypt, Raisi elaborated, "We see no obstacles to the return of Iranian-Egyptian relations. The Sultan of Oman discussed Egypt's desire to restore relations with Iran with our Supreme Leader, who responded there were no objections from Iran to fulfill this desire."

In the face of recent diplomatic developments in the Middle East, Israel is keenly observing the impending restoration of relations between Egypt and Iran, according to the Israeli newspaper "Maariv". 

The newspaper cited "The National" website reporting that Egypt and Iran expect to renew their relations and appoint ambassadors in their respective countries within months. 

Maariv pointed out that Egyptian officials have agreed in principle to arrange a meeting between Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and his Iranian counterpart Ibrahim Raisi, anticipated to take place by the end of this year. 

Iran has previously shown interest in improving relations with Egypt, the most populous Arab nation. Sources indicate that Egypt normalizing relations with Iran confirms Tehran's good faith regarding Cairo's efforts to strengthen economic and trade relations with countries such as Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon, where it has significant influence. 

The sources added that Egypt will also attempt to persuade Iran to cease, or at least decrease, its support for Hamas and Islamic Jihad, the two principal Palestinian movements in the Gaza Strip.