Cold War In The Islamic World: Saudi Arabia, Iran And The Struggle For Supremacy.

For four decades, Saudi Arabia and Iran have competed for influence in the Muslim world. The heart of this ongoing Cold War between Riyadh and Tehran lies in the Sunni-Shiite schism, and the intertwined histories of the two countries. The Saudis see this as a conflict between Sunnis and Shiites; Iran's ruling clerics view it as one between their own Islamic Republic and an illegitimate monarchy. This fundamental split has occurred in the geopolitical competition for dominance in the region: Iran has expanded its influence in Syria, Iraq and Lebanon, while the hyperactive crown prince of Saudi Arabia, Muhammad bin Salman, has intervened in Yemen, isolating Qatar and destabilizing Lebanon. . Dilip Hiro examines the poisonous competition between the two countries, traces its roots and asks if this Islamic Cold War is likely to end any time soon.