![US-Saudi relations are in a rough patch as China brokers a deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran.](https://www.worldpoliticsreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/us-saudi-relations-iran-deal-biden-mbs-china-03162023-1.jpg?w=519&h=259&crop=1)
The news that Saudi Arabia and Iran reestablished diplomatic relations in a deal mediated by China startled observers around the world. Beyond the question of whether it will hold, the agreement raises another important question: Does it signify a shift by Saudi Arabia away from its alignment with the U.S. to one with China?