Strategic Assessment

Saudi Arabia has traditionally tended to avoid direct confrontation with strong enemies, preferring deep pockets and attempts at mediation in the Arab world in order to neutralize dangers. While Saudi Arabia has generally relied on American patronage for deterrence and defense, the turbulence in the Arab world has led Riyadh to a stronger sense that it is left on its own to cope with the threats it faces, as well as to the recognition that the challenges at home and abroad compel it to adopt different solutions than in the past. This has led it largely to abandon its former relative passivity, fling down the gauntlet to Iran, and even adopt a more independent policy toward the United States. This article examines the motivation behind what appears to be an adjustment in Saudi policy, and the implications of this change.