Iran and Saudi Arabia have do not maintain diplomatic relations since the 2016 attack on the Saudi embassy in Tehran. This occurred after Saudi Arabia executed Shia cleric Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr.

Both countries have a long history of tensions and conflicts, stemming from religious, political, and economic differences [source]. And, both countries are exploiting sectarianism in the region for their own purposes.

This confrontation has therefore impacted several Middle Eastern countries and many regional and international actors [source]. Including armed militias, and the involvement of the United States (US), Russia, Turkey, and Israel.

In the next 24 months, and despite a potential involvement of the US in the region, these tensions will likely continue to simmer, with occasional flare-ups.