GCC Risk Management Report: Focus on Syria as sectarian tensions enflamed

The election of moderate cleric Hassan Rouhani in Iran’s 14 June presidential election prompted a string of congratulatory cables from the leaders of the GCC, adding to a general sense of optimism that his election could potentially undo some of the damage done under Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Saudi King Abdullah wished Rouhani “permanent good health and happiness”, and the people of Iran “progress and prosperity”, and “lauded Rouhani’s statements on his keenness to co-operate and improve relations between the two countries”, a sentiment echoed in Rouhani’s first postelection press conference, at which he said good relations with Saudi Arabia would be a priority.