Saudi Arabia Outspends Iran in Defense, But Differently
Saudi Arabia and Iran are two major oil-producing nations with different visions for power. Saudi Arabia focuses on building its economy, infrastructure, and global investments as the sources of a state's strength, while Iran prioritizes military capabilities and external influence.
Iran has invested heavily in its military, including missiles, drones, and a nuclear program, and has recruited tens of thousands of fighters from neighboring countries to serve as proxy forces. In contrast, Saudi Arabia has absorbed millions of people from other countries who have come to support their families and improve their incomes.
The article argues that the Iranian model is not new to the region, but rather an imitation of Saddam Hussein's military project, which was focused on expansion and occupation. The author notes that Iran's spending on its war machine has neglected other sectors and is misleading due to low production costs and wages in Iran.
The author also points out that Saudi Arabia's resources are spent on tourism, mining, energy, industry, technology, sports, and aviation, whereas a larger portion of Iran's resources goes to the Revolutionary Guard, enrichment, missiles, drones, and armed groups outside its borders.