China’s role in the Saudi-Iranian deal is momentous. However, Beijing may find that its relations in the region are undermined by failures in its implementation.

Last Friday marked a profound turning point in Middle Eastern politics. With the signing of an agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran to resume diplomatic relations and respect each other’s sovereignty, there is no denying that change is in the air. The question is: Will it last?

The two sides, locked in a bitter rivalry since the Islamic Revolution in Iran over four decades ago, have shunned each other since 2016 following the execution of a Shiite cleric in Saudi Arabia and the subsequent storming of the Saudi Embassy in Tehran by protesters. At the heart of this rivalry is their conflicting desire to shape regional politics to their liking.

It is no small feat, therefore, that the two states have finally agreed to reopen their embassies and work toward reestablishing relations. Following successive rounds of negotiations hosted by Iraq and Oman, it is particularly interesting that the final deal was hammered out in Beijing.