Iran’s naval initiative
Iran is making strides to come out of isolation. Its endeavour to normalise relations with Saudi Arabia, under the aegis of Chinese mediation, by ending a decade-long hostility has opened vistas of new cooperation with other Gulf and Middle Eastern neighbours. The vibes from Iranian Naval commander that his country is contemplating a multi-regional naval alliances comprising the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar and Iraq is most welcome. It will bring to an end Persian and Arab hostility in the Hormuz Straits, and help navigate world commerce in a more profound manner with a sense of esteemed security. With Saudi Arabia on same page, it makes a win-win equation. But what made the proposal startling is inclusion of South Asian adversaries, India and Pakistan, which will go a long way in furthering normality in interstate relations.
Commander Shahram Irani’s initiative must find appropriate response from proposed member states. It is essential to look at the wider paradigm of cooperation in an age of new blocs. Persian-Arab estrangement has been at the root cause of three wars in the region, and the political upheavals across the Mideast in the wake of Arab Spring is a case in point. Iran, moreover, must walk a few extra steps to ensure Gulf States that it is stepping back from its proxy policies, and wants real amalgamation of regional resources for a new tomorrow. Arabs States’ positive response will be a logical outcome, as they believe in compassion and burying the hatchet as is evident in recognition of Israel by four Gulf states in the last couple of years.
The multilateral naval cooperation should be seen in blue waters more effectively than on papersheets. This is how states can pool in their commerce and military muscles to defeat the invisible enemy in the form of non-state actors and extra-territorial elements who to this day had infringed regionalism.
The bonanza of the initiative in bringing India and Pakistan on the same page. It remains to be seen whether Islamabad and New Delhi play to the gallery by repulsing the offer or taking a leap forward in joining hands. Maritime security is a must between nuclear duos and if it is ensured under a multilateral umbrella, it makes the outcome energetic with required safeguards. Commander Shahram’s thought can be a game-changer, and all it needs is sincerity of thought.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 5th, 2023.
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