GlobalWide News
The Wall Street Journal columnist Robert D. Kaplan: The leaders of Egypt and Saudi Arabia are far from perfect. The alternatives would have been much worse. Thus, there is the strategic recalibration by the U.S. regarding its relationship with undemocratic allies, particularly Egypt and Saudi Arabia, amid current geopolitical challenges.
Despite past criticisms of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), the Biden administration recognizes their importance. Secretary of State Blinken sought Egypt’s assistance in opening the Gaza border for humanitarian aid and evacuation of foreign nationals after Hamas’s attack on Israel, and President al-Sisi complied. Blinken and President Biden are also interested in maintaining Saudi Arabia’s openness to a potential security pact with Israel and the U.S.
Despite the undemocratic nature of these leaders, the article argues that their rule is preferable to the likely alternatives, citing the need for stability and strategic partnerships in the region over internal democratic reforms. The U.S. is thus advised to ‘cut Arab allies some democratic slack’ in light of the complex situation in the Middle East.
The entire article can be read at the link America Can’t Afford to Alienate Its Undemocratic Allies – WSJ
