, Columnist
Saudi Arabia’s Humiliation Is Iran’s Big Prize
Don’t expect Tehran to give up the means of imposing more insult and injury upon Riyadh.
He’ll have the humble pie
Photographer: Andre Malerba/BloombergThis article is for subscribers only.
Every long-time follower of geopolitics knows that a détente between old enemies is usually accompanied by the announcement of mutual benefit for all involved — this is the “Everyone wins!” explanation. Soon thereafter come assertions by each party of having gained special advantage from the bargain — this is the “We win the most!” defense, most vociferously argued by the side that gained the least.
Then come corollary claims that actors not involved in the agreement are somehow losing out — call it the “Neener-neener!” conclusion.