From Bahrain to Egypt, a New Era of Diplomacy: Iran’s Path to Normalizing Relations with the Region.

The recent normalization of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia has sparked a wave of speculation about the prospects of similar reconciliations between Iran and other regional countries. Bahrain and Egypt, in particular, are being touted as the next likely candidates to normalize relations with Tehran.

Bahrain, which has historically had strained relations with Iran, has shown signs of warming up to the idea of improving ties with Tehran. This change of heart is largely due to Saudi Arabia’s normalization of relations with Iran, as Bahrain often follows Saudi Arabia’s lead in foreign policy matters. The Gaza crisis has also created an opportunity for Bahrain to distance itself from its traditional Western allies and explore alternatives, including rapprochement with Iran.

Meanwhile, Egypt, which has had a checkered past with Iran, is also increasingly seen as a prime candidate for normalization. Despite past tensions, including Egypt’s sheltering of Mohammadreza Pahlavi after the Iranian Revolution and its signing of the Camp David Accords, the two countries have been quietly exploring ways to improve relations. The presidents of Iran and Egypt have exchanged phone calls and met on the sidelines of a summit in Riyadh, paving the way for a potential normalization of diplomatic relations.

A normalization of relations with Egypt would be a significant win for Iran, allowing it to break free from American and Israeli efforts to isolate it in the region. It would also open up new economic opportunities, including access to Egypt’s massive market.

As the Iranian government has made clear its intentions to strengthen ties with its neighbors, the possibilities of improving relations with Bahrain and Egypt seem increasingly likely. With the region undergoing a significant shift in the post-American order, the time may be ripe for Iran to rebuild bridges with its regional neighbors.