The US-Saudi alliance : a crisis overcome ?

Abstract EN

This article examines the course of US-Saudi relations from the early 1980s to the present day.

The focus is on the changing dynamics of the relationship.

Although the dynamics were affected by the first gulf war, the relationship remained strong through to 2001.

after 9/11, and especially after the second gulf war, a significant rift between the two countries opened up.

It is contended that recent moves towards restoring close and cooperative relations are likely to be frustrated by a fundamental dilemma facing the Saudi regime.

While the US-Saudi alliance is seen as a Kay element in maintaining the security of the Saudi state, it also deepens and aggravates the domestic and external security threats from which the regime seeks protection.

The regime has found it increasingly difficult to establish a reasonable balance between bolstering is own domestic support , cantering international terrorism , playing a regional role that promotes harmony and security in the Gulf and the wider middle east , and managing the relationship with the US so as to secure the support necessary for the survival of the regime.