Iran and the inevitability of history

Arab-Iranian relations encompass complex historical and contemporary pages, intertwined with multiple interests and ongoing political tensions. Since pre-Islamic times, there has been a geographic and cultural rivalry between the two sides. However, matters took on a more complex character with the rise of the Safavid dynasty, which added a new religious dimension to the conflict, charting a long path of tensions between Iran and the Arab world. These conflicts escalated with Iranian control over some Arab territories, most notably the occupation of the Ahvaz region and the UAE islands, which provoked Arab resentment and widened the trust gap between the neighbors. With the Iranian Revolution in 1979, Tehran added further dimensions to the conflict, seeking to export its revolution and expand its influence in the region. This led to deep wars and crises, such as the Iran-Iraq War, which shattered the fortunes of both countries. But can this complex past be overcome? This seems possible if there is a shared will, free from Western interference. Relations based on dialogue and partnership can achieve significant economic benefits for both sides, as figures on the volume of trade between Iran and the Gulf states demonstrate.