"First of all, we would like to convey our gratitude to Russia and to President Vladimir Putin for his willingness to help resolve the crisis between the two countries as soon as possible, "Hossein Sheikholeslam, member of the Islamic Consultative Assembly of the Islamic Republic of Iran, told Sputnik. "We welcome Russia’s initiative, but our problem with Saudi Arabia is much more complex than it appears at first glance."
"The Saudi authorities executed an ordinary Shiite preacher simply because he told the truth about the despotic policies of the ruling regime. He was convicted and executed without due process, in violation of all international conventions and laws," Sheikholeslam remarked.
"Therefore, Iran welcomes all of Russia’s attempts to resolve the current crisis between Tehran and Riyadh. If esteemed President Putin has an effective plan in mind, Iran will accept such an initiative from Russia," Sheikholeslam concluded.
Seyed Hadi Afghahi, an Iranian political scientist and a former member of a diplomatic mission to Lebanon, told Sputnik that Russia’s role may be crucial in resolving the crisis.
"The effectiveness of Russia’s role as a mediator in resolving this crisis between the two countries largely depends on the willingness of the Saudi authorities. Russia is a large and powerful country that has strategic relations with Iran and enjoys a good partnership with Saudi Arabia. So Russia can become a reliable and effective mediator who would help resolve this crisis," he said.
"Therefore we sincerely hope that Russia, with all of its wisdom, experience and influence, would help bring Saudi Arabia to the negotiating table. We thank the Russian side in advance and hope that Moscow will be able to play an effective role in resolving the conflict and preventing its further escalation," Afghahi added.
