The Middle East is a region known for its volatility, with global implications often overlooked. At the core of this region lies Saudi Arabia and its Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) partners, serving as stabilizing forces in a tumultuous landscape. Strengthening the US-Saudi security alliance could further solidify this stability, anchoring the GCC in the US orbit amidst a multipolar world.
The recent actions of the Houthi rebels in disrupting global shipping highlight the potential for significant global disruption emanating from the region. A destabilized Saudi Arabia or its allies could have far-reaching consequences, given their strategic importance in the global oil and gas market.
Recognizing the strategic value of Saudi Arabia as a status quo power is crucial in maintaining a US-led regional order. A formal security alliance between the US and Saudi Arabia would not only deter threats from actors like Iran but also safeguard shared interests such as economic stability, energy security, and the containment of rogue states.
Critics often point to differences in governance as a barrier to a US-Saudi alliance, but shared values and interests, including a commitment to open markets and regional stability, outweigh these concerns. Saudi Arabia's ongoing social, economic, and religious reforms further underscore its potential as a valuable ally in the evolving global landscape.
In an increasingly multipolar world, strong alliances are essential for upholding global order. Saudi Arabia's role as a midsize power with significant influence makes it a key partner for the United States in promoting stability and security across the Middle East and beyond.
