The Saudis have threatened to acquire nuclear capabilities if Iran proceeds with its nuclear program. In order to alleviate Saudi fears and prevent it from building a nuclear weapon, the United States has promised to defend the kingdom. Former President Barack Obama identified the linkage in 2015: “The protection that we provide as [the Gulf countries’] partner is a far greater deterrent that they could ever hope to achieve by developing their own nuclear stockpile.” However, Biden’s unwillingness to support Saudi Arabia in Yemen undermines America’s commitment to Saudi security, creating a risk that key decision-makers in Riyadh may explore the idea of developing nuclear capabilities.  

Biden’s “reset” of relations with Saudi Arabia demonstrates the dangers and shortcomings of a progressive-influenced foreign policy. Attempting to realize “acceptable ways” governments should interact with their populations and diplomatic “solutions” is antagonistic, unrealistic, and unreasonable. Furthermore, it is shortsighted and foolish when relationships succeed based on synergistic strategic and security interests. The policy humiliates an ally, deepens distrust, undermines cooperation, weakens U.S. power, threatens U.S. national security, and heightens instability. It should come as no surprise that Saudi Arabia increasingly courts China and Russia. It should be expected that Saudi Arabia will advance its own interests to the detriment of U.S. interests.

What we are seeing with Biden’s mismanagement of U.S.-Saudi relations is what we will get if a progressive-influenced foreign policy continues to ascend in the corridors of power in Washington.

Eric Bordenkircher, Ph.D., is a research fellow at UCLA’s Center for Middle East Development. His Twitter handle is @UCLA_Eagle.

The views represented in this piece are his own and do not necessarily represent the position of UCLA or the Center for Middle East Development.

Image: Reuters.