Empire
122. Iran & Saudi Arabia: The Rivalry that Split the Islamic World
Feb 13, 2024
Kim Ghattas, author of "Black Wave" and a Middle East expert, delves into the complex rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia that reshaped the Islamic world post-1979. She discusses her experiences growing up in Beirut during the civil war, illustrating the personal impact of these geopolitical tensions. The conversation highlights the birth of anti-American sentiment in Iran, the power shifts from the Iranian Revolution, and the ideological clash between Shi'ism and wahhabism, particularly in the context of Pakistan.
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Quick takeaways
- The events of 1979, including the Iranian Revolution and the rise of Zia ul Haq in Pakistan, set the stage for the rise of political Islam and the export of extremist ideologies.
- The rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia, ignited by the Iranian Revolution, fueled a competition for religious leadership and influence, reshaping the Middle East's geopolitical landscape.
Deep dives
1979: A Seismic Year in Geopolitics
1979 was a pivotal year in geopolitics, marked by significant events that shaped the Middle East. The Iranian Revolution, the siege of the holy mosque in Mecca, the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, and the rise of Zia ul Haq in Pakistan all occurred in this year, creating a complex and interconnected web of political and religious dynamics. These events had far-reaching consequences, not only in the region but also in global relations. They gave rise to the rise of political Islam, the export of extremist ideologies, and a deepening divide between Sunni and Shia communities. The year 1979 became a turning point that shaped the modern Middle East and laid the foundation for subsequent conflicts and tensions.
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