Iranian-Saudi rivalry claims another victim
Jordan recalling its ambassador from Tehran for consultations opens another front in the Iranian-Saudi rivalry, along with conflict over the hajj and oil.
Jordan announced April 18 that it would recall its ambassador to Iran for the second time in four months. “In protest of Iran’s interference in the domestic affairs of Arab countries, [Jordan] has recalled its ambassador for consultations,” said Mohammad al-Momani, Jordan’s minister of state for media affairs and communications. “Iran’s interference has created a crisis and deepening of instability.”
The Jordanians did not allege specific actions by Iran, but the decision seems to be heavily influenced by Amman aligning with Saudi Arabia in its regional rivalry with Iran. The last time Jordan recalled its ambassador was in early January, after Saudi Arabia announced that it would sever all diplomatic relations with Iran after its embassy in Tehran was attacked, following Riyadh's execution of Shiite Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr. Jordan’s announcement this time follows a meeting in Amman between Jordan's King Abdullah II and Mohammed bin Salman, the Saudi deputy crown prince and defense minister.
