International Business Times: Saudi Arabia-Iran Rivalry in Africa

January 7, 2016

 

Ken Menkhaus, professor and chair of political science, comments on the impact of escalating tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia on East African countries as Muslims in the region begin to choose sides.

 

Morgan Winsor writes for the IB Times, "Sudan, Djibouti and now Somalia are standing by Riyadh and cutting ties with Tehran, a move that signals a shift away from Iranian influence in the region and a firm alignment with Saudi Arabia's Sunni kingdom.

 

"But while these African countries will likely lose out on modest aid, arms deals and other support from their relationships with Tehran, political and religious experts said Riyadh might be offering incentives in return for their allegiance."

 

Read more on the rivalry in Africa here.