It's a collection of extracts of my upcoming book for advertisement purpose.
Understanding strategic culture is essential for analyzing and predicting the actions of states. By acknowledging the implications of strategic culture, we can reduce the influence of ethnocentrism in strategic development and computation. This awareness facilitates a deeper comprehension of the interaction between domestic politics and the external security landscape. The value system within the strategic community significantly shapes how security policies are formulated and implemented. Importantly, strategic culture encourages scholars to be self-aware, warning against the dangers of groupthink and inertia in policy development and decision-making (Booth, 2014).
In military and governmental organizations, strategic culture deeply influences decision-making processes. Cultural norms and assumptions, often ingrained, guide decision-makers. In Saudi Arabia, this is evident through the interplay of realpolitik, historical grudges, and religious beliefs, which shape foreign policy decisions, including alliances, initiatives, and regional partnerships (Cordesman, 2002). Saudi Arabia’s strategic culture also affects internal policies, influencing social reforms, economic laws, and religious interpretations. Decision-makers continuously balance modernization efforts with Islamic beliefs (Khalili, 2017).
Saudi Arabia's strategic culture is reflected in its military tactics, operations, and alliance-building. This unique blend includes an emphasis on religious symbols, Bedouin strategies, and modern technology. From its beginnings as an interior emirate in the 18th century, Saudi Arabia has undergone significant transformation. The first Saudi state, founded by Mohammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab and Mohammad ibn Saud, flourished briefly before succumbing to Ottoman pressure. The second Saudi state, established in 1824, lasted longer but was eventually dismantled by internal conflicts. The modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was established in 1932 by King Abdulaziz ibn Saud, who unified various regions under his rule.
Saudi Arabia's rapid economic growth in the mid-20th century was fueled by vast oil reserves, leading to a sophisticated economy. However, the kingdom faced social and political challenges, including rigid religious beliefs and low political engagement. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has been a key figure in driving significant reforms since his rise to prominence in 2015. His initiatives for social liberalization and economic diversification have sparked both domestic and international controversy. As of 2024, Saudi Arabia navigates a complex landscape marked by regional tensions, domestic changes, and an evolving international order.
The strategic culture of Saudi Arabia has been notably influenced by Crown Prince MBS’s reforms. His ascendancy marked a shift in the Al Saud family's power dynamics, ushering in an era of assertive leadership. MBS’s consolidation of power allowed for bold domestic reforms under Vision 2030, targeting corruption eradication, societal modernization, and economic diversification. These reforms, which emphasize youth empowerment, accountability, and inclusivity, contrast with traditional conservative values.
MBS's foreign policy underscores a proactive and interventionist approach, altering Saudi Arabia's regional power broker role. Notable examples include diplomatic rifts with Qatar and military interventions in Yemen. This represents a strategic cultural shift toward a more aggressive and internationally engaged stance in both domestic and foreign affairs.
Saudi-US relations have evolved significantly from 2015 to 2023. When MBS rose to power during King Salman’s reign, Saudi Arabia was cautious of President Barack Obama’s policies regarding the Arab Spring, the Iranian Nuclear Deal, and human rights pressures. The relationship improved during President Trump’s tenure, bolstered by MBS's rapport with Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and lucrative US-Saudi deals. However, relations cooled under President Joe Biden, marked by personality clashes and policy disagreements. This led MBS to diversify Saudi Arabia's international relations, improving ties with China and Russia to reduce dependence on the United States.
Crown Prince MBS has significantly influenced Saudi strategic culture and its policy toward the US. It remains to be seen whether this shift is a reaction to Biden’s policies or a permanent change in Saudi-US relations.