I wasn’t surprised by Arab government calls for action to be taken against Iran’s nuclear activities at all, but I am surprised by this:
Saudi Arabia proposed creating an Arab force backed by US and Nato air and sea power to intervene in Lebanon two years ago and destroy Iranian-backed Hezbollah, according to a US diplomatic cable released by WikiLeaks.
The plan would have sparked a proxy battle between the US and its allies against Iran, fought in one of the most volatile regions of the world.
The Saudi plan was never enacted but reflects the anxiety of Saudi Arabia – as well as the US – about growing Iranian influence in Lebanon and elsewhere in the Middle East.
I am no fan for the Saudi regime, but isn’t it telling that in private (for all the rhetoric about Israel within the region and in the West) the real threat to the region is clearly seen by those living there.
