Iran, the GCC and the Implications of the Nuclear Deal: Rivalry versus Engagement

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, also known as the Iran nuclear deal, is consequential for Middle East regional security. It has raised a number of concerns for Arab Gulf states in relation to an emboldened Iran after sanction relief and the perceived shift of the US away from supporting its traditional allies in the Gulf. The international recognition and incorporation of Iran into regional power constellations resulting from the deal will intensify Saudi-Iranian rivalry to assert dominance. This rivalry and competition will increase in the short run, however, regional crises are expected to highlight the need for dialogue and engagement on regional affairs.
Keywords: Iran, Middle East, Saudi Arabia, United States, JCPOA, regime security, regional alignments, Iran nuclear deal, Gulf Cooperation Council