Saudi Arabia: Reform and U.S. Policy

Publication Date: October 2004

Publisher: Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Author(s):

Research Area: Government

Type:

Coverage: Saudi Arabia

Abstract:

In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, in which 15 of the 19 airline hijackers were Saudi citizens, there has been a renewed concern over Islamic extremism in Saudi Arabia and its possible national security implications for the United States. The 9/11 Commission Report recommends that Saudi Arabia and the United States undertake a commitment to political and economic reform in Saudi Arabia, which some believe could mollify social unrest. Others believe that attempted reforms, particularly if advocated by Western governments, might empower Saudi radicals. This report provides an overview of the reform issue in Saudi Arabia, and issues surrounding U.S. policies to support liberalization in Saudi Arabia. For further information on Saudi Arabia, see CRS Issue Brief IB93113, Saudi Arabia: Current Issues and U.S. Relations, and CRS Report RL32499, Saudi Arabia: Terrorist Financing Issues. This report will be updated periodically.