The beginning of a thaw in relations between Iran and the West is not only worrying Israel, it is also a matter of concern for Iran’s Arab neighbours.
Both Israel and several Gulf states are concerned that sanctions may be lifted without receiving clear and verifiable assurances that Iran is no longer pursuing nuclear weapons.
In addition to the worry that Iran may become a nuclear power in the not-too-distant future, a development that would drastically alter the regional balance, the kingdoms of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain accuse Iran of inciting the Shia communities within their countries to rise up against their governments.
Israel’s Channel 2 reported this week that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supervised a number of “intensive meetings” between Israeli and Gulf officials.
