Iran, Saudi Arabia and the Regional Balance of Power Equation.
Abstract
In terms of measurable indicators such as gross national product, land, natural resources, population and power potential, Iran and Saudi Arabia remain the two most important centers of power in the Persian Gulf littoral, with Iran clearly being in the leading position. Iran will remain the pivotal center of power in this area, followed by Saudi Arabia. In addition, on a broader scale these two countries are pivotal to the maintenance of pro-Western influence in the Middle East, particularly as long as Egypt joins them in a similar policy posutre. But despite that, the majority of the Persian Gulf littoral states are expected to remain moderate, conservative, pro-Western entities in the coming decade. Their substantially expanded economic, financial, political, and military power is bound to have a positive moderating impact on the Middle East, thus further reducing the influence of the Soviet Union and its radical proteges. The position of Tehran, Riyadh and Cairo is crucial to the continuation and expansion of this trend. And its impact upon the regional balance of power in the Persian Gulf and the Middile East are bound to remain crucial.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 15, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA053342
Entities
People
- Robert Ghobad Irani
Organizations
- United States Army War College