The relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States has long been complicated by events that have shaped global politics and public opinion. Two of the most significant and controversial incidents are the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Both events have left deep scars and raised difficult questions about Saudi Arabia’s role on the world stage. When President Donald Trump welcomed Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the White House, these issues came sharply into focus, highlighting the ongoing tension between political alliances and demands for accountability.

Saudi Arabia and the 9/11 Attacks

The September 11 attacks remain one of the deadliest terrorist acts in history, killing nearly 3,000 people. The hijackers were mostly Saudi nationals, which has fueled suspicions and accusations about Saudi Arabia’s involvement. Families of 9/11 victims and some legal experts argue that extremist religious leaders in Saudi Arabia provided support to the hijackers. This claim has led to lawsuits and calls for transparency regarding Saudi Arabia’s role.

Despite these accusations, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has emphasized a different perspective. He pointed out that Osama bin Laden, the mastermind behind 9/11, aimed to damage the American-Saudi relationship. This view suggests that Saudi Arabia itself was a target of bin Laden’s extremist agenda, rather than a willing participant.

The U.S. government has faced pressure to declassify documents that could shed light on Saudi connections to the attacks. Some released reports show limited evidence of direct Saudi government involvement, but questions remain about individuals within the country who may have aided the hijackers.

Key Points About 9/11 and Saudi Arabia

• 15 of the 19 hijackers were Saudi nationals.

• Families of victims have pursued legal action against Saudi Arabia.

• The Saudi government denies official involvement.

• Declassified documents have not conclusively proven Saudi state complicity.

• The attacks strained U.S.-Saudi relations but did not sever them.

  
  

The Murder of Jamal Khashoggi

In 2018, Jamal Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist and critic of the Saudi government, was killed inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. This brutal act shocked the international community and raised serious concerns about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.

The U.S. and other governments demanded answers. Investigations pointed to involvement by Saudi agents, and many reports linked the killing to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s circle. The incident cast a shadow over diplomatic ties and led to calls for sanctions and policy changes.

Despite the outrage, the Trump administration maintained a strategic alliance with Saudi Arabia, citing the kingdom’s role in regional stability and economic partnerships. This stance sparked debate about balancing moral responsibility with geopolitical interests.

Balancing Diplomacy and Accountability

The U.S.-Saudi relationship is a complex mix of economic, military, and political interests. Saudi Arabia is a major oil supplier and a key player in Middle Eastern politics. The alliance offers strategic benefits, including cooperation on counterterrorism and regional security.

At the same time, the unresolved questions about 9/11 and Khashoggi’s murder challenge this partnership. Critics argue that overlooking these issues undermines justice and human rights. Supporters claim that engagement with Saudi Arabia is necessary to maintain influence and promote gradual reform.

This tension reflects a broader dilemma in international relations: how to hold powerful allies accountable without jeopardizing critical cooperation.

Practical Considerations for the Future

• Increased transparency from Saudi Arabia on sensitive issues.

• Continued pressure for legal accountability in cases like 9/11 and Khashoggi.

• Strengthening human rights dialogue alongside security cooperation.

• Encouraging reforms within Saudi Arabia through diplomatic channels.

• Balancing national security interests with ethical foreign policy.

  
  

Reflecting on the Legacy

The legacy of Saudi Arabia’s role in 9/11 and the murder of Jamal Khashoggi remains a subject of intense debate. These events have shaped public opinion and policy decisions in the United States and beyond. While the full truth may never be completely revealed, the ongoing dialogue highlights the need for vigilance, justice, and careful diplomacy.

Understanding this complex history helps clarify why the U.S.-Saudi relationship continues to be both vital and controversial. It also reminds us that global alliances often involve difficult trade-offs between values and interests.

As the world watches, the challenge will be to build a future where accountability and cooperation can coexist, ensuring that past tragedies lead to meaningful change rather than silence.

Use my referral code to sign up for The Gemini Credit Card and get an extra $50 in crypto! Check out offer and benefits.

https://creditcard.exchange.gemini.com/credit-card/apply?referral_code=gd7mvtprp