Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the main method used by Saudi Arabia and Iran to engage in conflicts with each other?
When was Saudi Arabia officially formed as a country?
What event in 1979 played a significant role in deepening the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran?
Which country did Iran begin 'exporting its revolution' to after the Iranian Revolution?
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Which major event led to the creation of a religious and political divide between Sunni and Shia countries?
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What prompted Saudi Arabia to increase its efforts against Iran's influence?
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In which decade did Iraq become a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran?
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Which of the following best describes the relationship between Saudi Arabia and the US?
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What provoked Saudi Arabia to threaten Qatar according to the text?
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Study Notes
- The Middle East is a complex region with 4 failing states and 3 ongoing wars, and major powers taking opposing sides.
- Two main powers involved in the conflicts are Saudi Arabia and Iran, who have a long-standing rivalry.
- They have never declared war on each other but engage in proxy wars by supporting opposing sides in other countries.
- Origins of both countries: In the early 1900s, the Arabian peninsula was a patchwork of tribes under the Ottoman Empire.
- Saudi Arabia was formed in 1932, discovered oil reserves in 1938, and formed an alliance with the US.
- Iran also had oil reserves and a larger Muslim population but faced foreign intervention and instability.
- In 1979, the Iranian Revolution led by Ayatollah Khomeini overthrew the Shah, creating a religious and political divide between Sunni and Shia countries.
- The Iranian Revolution terrified the Saudi government, fearing a religious and political uprising in their own country.
- Iran began "exporting its revolution" and helping Shia groups overthrow governments in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Saudi Arabia, prompting Saudi Arabia to redouble its efforts.
- The stage was set for conflict, with Iraq becoming a proxy war in the 1980s and continuing into the Arab Spring in 2011.
- Both countries have supported opposing sides in various civil wars throughout the Middle East, exacerbating the conflicts.
- The feud has escalated and drawn in other countries, with Saudi Arabia threatening Qatar for developing ties with Iran.
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Description
Explore the historical origins and ongoing conflicts between Saudi Arabia and Iran, two major powers in the Middle East. Learn about their proxy wars, involvement in civil wars, and the complex relationship that has shaped the region.
