The eye-popping, unsettling truth about Saudi Arabia

The Unholy Alliance: Saudi arabia’s Embrace of Extremism

The brutal murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 sent shockwaves around the globe. Inside the Saudi‌ consulate in Istanbul, Khashoggi, a vocal critic⁤ of the Saudi regime ⁢and its de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammed ‍bin Salman, ​was brutally killed and⁢ dismembered.His crime? Challenging the authoritarian grip of the ⁤Saudi government.

This heinous act ‌underscores a disturbing reality: saudi Arabia’s intolerance for dissent.⁣ Agnès Callamard, the‍ UN’s former​ special ⁢rapporteur on extrajudicial killings, concluded⁣ in a thorough 2019 report that there was “credible evidence” linking Crown prince Mohammed bin Salman and his senior officials to khashoggi’s murder. Callamard, who later became the head of Amnesty International, even received a chilling warning from an unnamed Saudi official: “You will be taken care of” if she continued her investigations. It was⁢ a⁣ veiled threat, reminiscent of the ruthlessness of a ⁢mafia boss.

The Genesis of an Unholy Alliance

The Khashoggi murder, and the clumsy cover-up that followed, ​serves as a chilling focal point for ​Malise Ruthven’s searing analysis of the Saudi regime’s alliance with conservative ⁤and extremist Islamic forces.In his book,Ruthven,a ⁤prominent scholar of Islam and the Middle east,delivers ‌a scathing indictment of this alliance,exposing its origins,consequences,and the perilous path it paves for the future.

The foundation of this unholy alliance lies with the ruling‌ Saud family‌ and the conservative‍ clergy. This alliance, rooted in a sectarian interpretation of islam known as Wahhabism, has a history that dates back to the 18th century, when Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, a ​fiery preacher, ignited a ​movement that would profoundly shape ‌the landscape of Islam.

What began as a fringe ideology has evolved into a ‍dominant force in Saudi ​Arabia, fueled by vast petrodollar resources. Estimates suggest that Saudi arabia has poured upwards of $70 to $100 billion into the promotion of ultra-conservative‌ Islamic strands, including wahhabism, Salafism, and deobandism, up‌ to​ 2016. This massive investment has ⁢come⁣ at a meaningful⁤ cost, eroding Islamic diversity and transforming traditionally pluralistic societies into hotbeds⁤ of intolerance.

The Ripple⁣ Effect: A World Fueled by Extremism

The consequences of Saudi Arabia’s embrace of extremism have reverberated far beyond its borders.⁢ By funding and promoting Wahhabism, the⁣ Saudi government has inadvertently fueled the spread of a radical ideology that has found fertile ground in countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan, Indonesia, and Nigeria. This has‍ contributed to the rise of political Islam, violent extremism, and sectarian conflict across the Muslim world.

Ruthven argues that the Saudi government, in its pursuit ⁢of geopolitical influence and the ‌consolidation of its power, has‍ sacrificed its moral compass ‍and obligation. By prioritizing ideological conformity‌ over intellectual freedom and‌ religious pluralism, Saudi Arabia has become a breeding ⁢ground for extremism, posing a threat not⁤ only to its own citizens but also to global ‍stability.

For decades, the relationship between the Saudi royal family and the austere wahhabi branch of Islam⁢ has been⁤ a defining characteristic of the kingdom.This alliance, while ‌beneficial for the ruling Al Saud family, has had far-reaching and often troubling consequences, fueling extremism and animosity towards other faiths.

A Complex Relationship‌

Author Robert G. Ruthven meticulously examines this intricate relationship in his book, “Saudi Arabia: ⁢The⁤ Inside story, ” revealing the⁢ mechanisms by ⁣which Saudi Arabia has used Wahhabism as both a tool for internal control and ‍a weapon in its geopolitical strategy.

Fueling Extremism Abroad

Ruthven highlights how Saudi⁤ financial ⁢resources have been funneled into supporting Wahhabi institutions and ideologies around the world. This support has inadvertently created fertile‍ ground ‍for the rise of extremist groups. “Thus, four of the 2002 Bali bombers were⁢ graduates of a Saudi-endowed boarding school ​in Java, Indonesia,” Ruthven writes. ⁢ he further points to the Nigerian terrorist group Boko Haram, notorious for ​its brutal attacks on civilians, as a “most catastrophic” outcome of Saudi proselytizing in Africa.‍

Internal Repression, External Liberation

The Saudi regime employs a paradoxical approach: suppressing ⁢jihadists within⁢ its own borders as a threat to the ruling family ⁤while concurrently encouraging them abroad as a means of furthering anti-Shia agendas.

“A Reformist Islam That is Democratically Friendly‌ is ⁤Clearly the Biggest Dread of the Current Saudi ⁤Regime”

Despite occasional pronouncements of reform, Ruthven argues⁢ that the Saudi government‌ remains deeply committed to its alliance with the Wahhabi‌ clergy. “A reformist Islam that is democratically friendly is clearly the biggest dread of the current Saudi regime,” he asserts. This suggests that meaningful ⁢religious moderation in saudi Arabia is unlikely in the near future.⁢

Unanswered Questions: The 9/11 Connection

The book delves into the murky relationship between ​the Saudi hijackers‌ of 9/11 and Saudi officials. Reports indicate that some ​alleged intelligence⁢ operatives may have provided assistance to the terrorists before the attacks. The lack of complete transparency from ⁢both the US and Saudi governments has fueled‌ speculation and suspicions.

The Bitter Legacy: Antisemitism and ‍anti-Christian Prejudice

Perhaps the most alarming consequence of Saudi Arabia’s longstanding embrace ⁣of Wahhabism⁢ is the widespread antisemitism and anti-Christian ‌prejudice it has fostered across the Muslim​ world.

As Ibn Saud, the founder of ​modern Saudi Arabia, once declared, “The Jews are our enemy everywhere. To every spot on earth to which they come they ⁤spread corruption and work against our interests.” this hateful rhetoric has contributed to ⁢a climate of intolerance and discrimination that persists to this day.

Moving Forward: A Call for Dialog and Reform

The complex relationship ‌between ‌Saudi⁣ arabia ‍and Wahhabism presents a⁣ significant challenge for ⁢the international ‍community. ‌Promoting genuine religious tolerance,fostering interfaith dialogue,and encouraging​ Saudi ⁢Arabia to embrace a more inclusive‌ vision of Islam is essential to mitigating the harmful consequences of this ⁣enduring legacy.

Saudi Arabia: AI and the Illusion of Reform

Saudi‍ Arabia is rapidly embracing artificial intelligence (AI) as a cornerstone of its​ ambitious modernization plan.This push towards a technologically‍ advanced ‍future comes amidst a ‌backdrop of ongoing‍ human rights concerns and a reliance on​ Western ⁤partnerships‍ that raise ethical questions.

A History of repression

The Saudi regime, known for its vast wealth and controversial ⁢dealings, has long been criticized for its human rights record.Prince Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, a former Saudi ambassador to Washington, candidly admitted, “If you tell me that building this whole country ​and in spending $350 billion out of $400 billion that‌ we misused ⁣or got corrupted with $50 billion, I’ll tell you, ‘Yes, so what?’” This admission reflects a culture of impunity that continues to persist.

The promise of Neom

the Kingdom⁤ is pouring billions into neom, a futuristic​ megacity envisioned as a hub for technology and innovation. Neom’s proponents claim it will⁣ diversify the Saudi economy and⁤ attract global investment. However, the project has been criticized for its environmental impact and its​ reliance on foreign expertise, notably from Western consulting firms.

Reform or Propaganda?

Saudi Arabia’s leadership promotes its efforts as a wave of reform, pointing to initiatives like allowing women to‍ drive and initiatives in tourism and entertainment.They tout deals with Israel and involvement in global sports as evidence of openness. However, critics argue ⁢that these reforms are superficial, designed to deflect attention from the regime’s oppressive policies.

Despite promises ​of ⁣greater freedom, dissent is met with harsh consequences. Activists and journalists who speak out against the government face imprisonment, torture, and even death. the regime’s⁤ control over social media is tight, with‌ any criticism of the‍ crown prince met with​ swift and severe action.

AI: A Double-Edged Sword?

the embrace of AI raises significant ethical concerns.​ While AI could potentially be used to improve lives and‍ address social ⁣challenges in Saudi Arabia, it ⁢also risks exacerbating existing inequalities and reinforcing authoritarian control.

There’s a risk that AI could be used for surveillance and censorship, further restricting freedom of speech and expression.The lack of transparency surrounding AI development and deployment in Saudi Arabia‍ raises questions about​ accountability and potential misuse.

A Call ​for Vigilance

The saudi government’s pursuit⁢ of AI should be met with both cautious optimism and⁤ critical scrutiny.While technological advancements offer possibilities for progress, it is crucial to hold the Saudi regime ⁤accountable for its human rights record⁤ and ensure that AI is not used to further oppress its​ citizens.

The international community must demand greater transparency and accountability from Saudi Arabia as‌ it embraces AI. Failing to do so risks legitimizing a regime that prioritizes its own⁣ power over the well-being of ⁣its​ people.

What are the potential ⁣risks of AI misuse for authoritarian control and the marginalization of vulnerable populations within Saudi Arabia?

An Uneasy Alliance: Exploring Saudi Arabia’s Embrace of AI with Dr. Yasmin Khan

Interview with ⁢Dr. Yasmin Khan, Senior Fellow at the center for Middle Eastern Studies

Dr. Yasmin Khan is a ⁤renowned expert on the intersection of ⁢technology and geopolitics in the Middle East.Her insights into ⁢Saudi Arabia’s growing relationship with artificial‌ intelligence shed light on the⁤ complex challenges and ethical dilemmas that accompany this rapid technological advancement.

Dr.Khan, thank you for joining us today.Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plans to incorporate‍ AI into ⁣its future are ​widely discussed. What are your primary concerns regarding this progress?

It’s⁢ a engaging yet complex issue.on one hand,Saudi Arabia recognizes the immense potential of AI to diversify its‌ economy,modernize its infrastructure,and improve public services. However, these ‌lofty goals must be carefully weighed against the potential risks, especially in a country with a⁤ history of⁢ human‌ rights ‍violations. My main concern is that AI technologies could be misused to enhance authoritarian control, stifle dissent, and ‍further marginalize already vulnerable populations.

Can you ‌elaborate on ‍that? How could AI be used for these purposes?

AI-powered surveillance systems, for exmaple, could be deployed‌ on an even larger scale, monitoring citizens’ movements, online activities, and communications. This ⁤could create a chilling ​effect on free speech and assembly. Additionally, AI‌ algorithms could be used to analyze vast amounts of data to identify and target individuals deemed suspicious or critical of the government. This ​could lead to arbitrary detention, torture, and ⁢other forms of abuse.

Saudi arabia frequently enough portrays its reforms, including those related to technology, as a sign of ‌progress⁣ and openness. How⁤ do you reconcile this narrative with the continued repression of dissent and human rights violations?

That’s a crucial question. It’s ⁣critically ⁢important ⁤to be wary of surface-level‍ changes that fail to address the underlying‌ systemic issues. While Saudi Arabia may be making some cosmetic adjustments to its social and political⁣ landscape, these often come with an iron⁤ fist.⁤ The government continues to crack down on activists, journalists, and anyone who dares to question ‍its authority. The ‍illusion of reform should not mask the reality of ⁢human rights abuses.

What role can the international community ‌play in​ ensuring that AI ⁤development in​ Saudi Arabia is ethical and responsible?

The‍ international community has a responsibility to hold​ Saudi Arabia accountable for its human rights record and to promote⁤ transparency and accountability in ⁢its adoption of AI. This can be achieved through ⁢targeted sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and by working with civil society organizations ⁣within Saudi arabia to support human rights defenders.

Dr.​ Khan,this raises some complex questions about the ⁣balance between technological progress and ethical considerations.How do we navigate these challenges in the globalized world?

That’s the million-dollar question, ⁣isn’t it? We need to have an ongoing and nuanced​ dialog about the ethical implications ⁤of AI, not just within individual countries but on a global scale. This requires collaboration between governments, tech companies, researchers, and civil society organizations. We ⁢must prioritize human rights and dignity in the‍ development and deployment of AI, ensuring that it serves the common good rather than becoming⁤ a tool for oppression and control.