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We cannot allow Saudi Arabia to drift away from the West
The much-anticipated visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the United Kingdom, briefed to occur this autumn, now appears to have been delayed until a later date. The decision to postpone the trip is believed to be related to the German government’s decision to block Britain’s sale of 48 Eurofighter Typhoons to Saudi Arabia.
If this is correct, it is unfortunate. Recent events in the Middle East have highlighted the need for greater British and American engagement in the region, and the importance of keeping our traditional allies onside.
Iran’s nuclear programme remains a dangerous and destabilising influence, and the US Department of Defence now assesses that Tehran would be capable of producing enough fissile material for a nuclear device with just two weeks’ notice. The recent expulsion of International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors from the country can hardly be taken as a signal of good intentions.
In a recent interview, bin Salman said that if Iran were to obtain a nuclear weapon, then Saudi Arabia would have to follow suit. Part of the blame for this mess can be laid on a series of strategic blunders from President Biden, who has alienated Middle Eastern partners while failing to halt Tehran’s nuclear programme.
Britain, in turn, should reflect on where its interests lie. Saudi Arabia is an important regional counterweight, yet one which has been pushed away from the West. In recent months, Riyadh has taken steps towards joining the Brics grouping and has allowed Beijing to broker a diplomatic deal between the kingdom and Iran.
It is vital that this drift is reversed.
