Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy war

Iran and Saudi Arabia are engaged in a proxy war over influence in the Middle East and other regions of the Muslim world. The two countries have provided varying degrees of support to opposing sides in nearby conflicts, including the civil wars in Syria and Yemen; and disputes in Bahrain, Lebanon, Qatar, and Iraq. The struggle also extends to disputes or broader competition in other countries globally including in West, North, and East Africa; South, Central, and Southeast Asia; the Balkans, and the Caucasus.

In what has been described as a new cold war, the conflict is waged on multiple levels over geopolitical, economic, and sectarian influence in pursuit of regional hegemony. The rivalry has drawn comparisons to the dynamics of the Cold War era.

As of 2017, the rivalry is primarily a political and economic struggle exacerbated by religious differences, and sectarianism in the region is exploited by both countries for geopolitical purposes as part of a larger conflict. Iran sees itself as the leading Shia Muslim power, while Saudi Arabia is the leading Sunni Muslim power (see Shia–Sunni relations).

As of 10 March 2023, diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia have been restored due to Chinese-brokered talks, which could have positive implications in the political climate of the Middle East. The deal was concluded after Iranian agreement to stop its military support for the Houthi militants in the Yemeni civil war.

As a result of the 2026 Iran war initiated by United States–Israeli surprise airstrikes on Iran, Iran and Saudi Arabia exchanged direct strikes on their respective territories.