The Special U.S.-Saudi Relationship Has Outlived Its Usefulness

With any new presidency and shift in administration, particularly when there is a transition in ideology, we tend to expect some change in foreign policy priorities.

And the U.S.-Saudi relationship has been a priority for nearly 70 years now, with cooperation on everything from military intelligence to oil. But as many critics will be quick to point out, this might be one relationship that we should treat with a little less benevolence, recognizing the strains caused by the 9/11 attacks, multiple human rights concerns, and a lessening dependence on foreign oil.

However, as President Trump has made clear, his administration has no intention of upsetting the status quo with Saudi Arabia, particularly as tensions with Iran escalate, and the need for a stable ally in the Middle East becomes even more important.

Tonight we put these points to the test, debating the motion: The Special U.S.-Saudi Relationship Has Outlived Its Usefulness

Arguing in favor of the motion are Madawi Al-Rasheed, Visiting Professor for the London School of Economics, and Mark P. Lagon, Centennial Fellow & Distinguished Senior Scholar at Georgetown University Walsh School of Foreign Service.

Opposing them: F. Gregory Gause, John H. Lindsey Chair & Head of the International Affairs Department, Texas A&M, joins James Jeffrey, Former Ambassador to Turkey & Iraq, and Philip Solondz Distinguished Fellow.