Saudi Arabia Floats Middle Eastern Non-Aggression Pact With Iran as European Nations Swing Behind Proposal

Saudi Arabia proposed a Middle Eastern non-aggression pact with Iran modeled on the 1970s Helsinki process, with European nations reportedly swinging behind the idea as reported on May 14. The Kingdom seeks a permanent ceasefire and a framework closing off any military path for Iran nuclear program, while Tehran wants staged sanctions relief and guarantees against future aggression. Riyadh has been lobbying against military escalation, believing conflict would leave Iran battered but emboldened with the Islamic Republic still in power.