Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi has welcomed a proposal by his Egyptian counterpart Nabil el-Arabi that Cairo is willing to reestablish diplomatic ties with the Islamic Republic of Iran. Salehi stated, “good relationship between the two countries will certainly help stability, security, and development in the region.” Salehi also added that despite ups and downs the “historic relations” between the two countries have always persisted and “I hope in the new environment we witness an upgrade of relationship.” While, Egyptian Foreign Minister Nabil el-Arabi stated that Egypt is ready to “open a new page” with Iran and the Egyptian government doesn’t consider Iran to be an enemy state.” He also pointed out that restoring full diplomatic ties depends on the Iranian side.1

However, the Iranian Defense Minister, Ahmad Vahidi criticized Saudi Arabia for its military intervention in Bahrain and said that the presence of Saudi troops in Bahrain will cause insecurity and instability in the region. He pointed out that “such moves will increase tension, and if such thoughtless and unlawful moves become a norm the region will be turned into a center of hostility and conflict.” Vahidi also criticized the Manama officials for inviting foreign troops to suppress the Bahraini people.2

• 1. “Tehran welcomes overture by Egypt to establish ties with Iran,” Mehr News Agency, March 30, 2011, at http://www.mehrnews.com/en/newsdetail.aspx?NewsID=1279222
• 2. “Iran defense minister warns against presence of Saudi troops in Bahrain,” Mehr News Agency, March 29, 2011, at http://www.mehrnews.com/en/newsdetail.aspx?NewsID=12789688