Ali Shamkhani and Iranian foreign policy in the Arab world

Regarding this article by David Ignatius Al Saud: it is true that Shamkhani's role has risen but it is a function of Iranian foreign policy orientation. He is relied on only when Iran wants to improve ties with the Gulf regimes--and Shamkhani enjoys good relations even with the Saudi royal who bestowed one of their highest medals on him.  But if relations deteriorate, he can easily be shelved.