Teflon-Coated Saudi Arabia
Reader comment on item: Throwing out the [Arab-Israeli] Rulebook

Submitted by Jonathan (United States), Jun 17, 2003 at 14:48

I have been deeply disturbed by the sight of President Bush bullying and berating the legitimately-elected leader of a free, democratic ally, Israel - yet coddling the Saudi Royal Family. I commend Presidnet Bush on his aggressive stance in the ME, but I am appalled at the way he relates to Sharon, a man who has dedicated his life to his country's safety. Despite their refusal to cooperate in the wake of 9.11 by not providing the air passenger lists that were requested, despite the evidence of Saudi money financing Moslem fundamentalist groups, the President still relates to the Saudis as the best of friends. Are they? Why? Why no strong words for the Royal Family? Oil? Are there no other sources of oil around the world? Air bases? Because they could be replaced by far worse? It was even more disturbing recently to hear that none of the countries invited to attend the Road Map announcement in Jordan were supporters of terrorism - the Saudis were there. How do they maintain their teflon coating?


Thanks,

Jonathan in NYC

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