Sudan's Expulsion of an Iranian Diplomat Signals a Strategic Shift

Sudan's sudden crackdown on Iranian cultural activities in Khartoum, although ostensibly aimed at combatting Shiite evangelism, is likely a response to Egyptian, Saudi and Israeli pressure to inhibit Iranian support for Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip. Sudan has long been a key transit node for Iranian weapon smuggling routes into Gaza, by way of Egypt's Sinai Peninsula. The abrupt move by Khartoum suggests a greater cooperation with Cairo and its Gulf allies, and would also explain Israel's readiness to accept the Gaza truce.