Dubai, UAE – FrontPage Magazine published an opinion piece by Josh Hammer titled “The Saudi Mask Falls,” offering a sharp critique of Saudi Arabia’s policies. He argued that the image of “moderation” Riyadh has tried to cultivate in recent years is faltering. He also explained that its recent behavior raises old questions about its regional credibility.
Duality in the relationship with the West
The author argued that Riyadh has been playing a double game for years. On the one hand, there is a public political and security partnership with Washington. On the other hand, there is the export of “Islamism” through Saudi-funded religious figures and schools beyond its borders.
A heavy legacy linked to the events of September 11
The article cites the fact that 15 of the 19 9/11 hijackers were Saudi. This is presented as a stark example within its narrative of the long-standing problems that have plagued the kingdom’s image.
Escalating tensions with the UAE and aligning with Islamist movements
The article states that Riyadh has shifted from coordinating with Abu Dhabi to confronting it on multiple fronts. It cites the December 30th attack on UAE-backed forces in Yemen as an example. The article also discusses ongoing competition in other regional issues. Furthermore, the author notes that Riyadh tends to support certain Islamist factions more than others in some of these arenas.
Impulsive leadership behavior and reputation crises
The author describes Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as sometimes acting childishly and impulsively. He cites the Ritz-Carlton arrests in November 2017 and the 2018 murder of Jamal Khashoggi. He also notes that a US intelligence report concluded that a high-level official was responsible for the operation.
Erosion of trust as a reliable ally
The article concluded that Riyadh’s behavior casts doubt on its reliability. It further explained that dealings with Riyadh should remain governed by the logic of interests and political pressure, not by long-term trust.
