China and Iran's Saudi Arabia Deal Signals a New Chapter for the Region

China brokered a deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia to reestablish diplomatic ties and reopen mutual embassies, raising concerns over the implications for failed US-Iran nuclear talks, Israeli attempts to normalize ties with regional neighbors under the Abraham Accords, and China’s growing influence in the Middle East. While Iran and China stand to gain from the deal, Saudi Arabia's top issues with Iran are unlikely to be resolved. The agreement reflects a "sign of the times" as US partners in the Middle East are increasingly stepping back from Washington’s influence.