Saudi-US Tensions Simmer
A dispute over oil risks causing irreparable harm to US relations with Saudi Arabia, a crucial partner for Washington in the Middle East. Causes: Nearly two weeks on from a decision by OPEC+ to cut oil production, tensions are escalating. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan fired the most recent salvo, saying the US would consider changes to the security and military support it provides Riyadh. “The president isn’t going to act precipitously,” Sullivan said on Sunday to CNN. Biden will “take his time to consult with members of both parties put over oil risks causing irreparable harm to US relations with Saudi Arabia, a crucial partner for Washington in the Middle East. Effects: In response, officials across the Middle East have denied the supply decrease was politically motivated or a reflection of support for Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. Saudi Defense Minister Khalid Bin Salman said the decision was “due to purely economic reasons,” while ministers from