(Washington Institute for Near East Policy) Andrew J. Tabler and Simon Henderson - On Monday, after more news of Syrian tanks being used against civilian protestors, King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia issued a statement saying: "What is happening in Syria is unacceptable to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia." He ended his statement by announcing the recall of the Saudi ambassador to Damascus. Within hours, Kuwait and Bahrain had also withdrawn their envoys. The U.S. should take advantage of the diplomatic opportunity created by Saudi Arabia. In the past, Damascus has responded to regional and wider diplomatic pressure. Washington should step up its efforts with European and other states to pressure for either reform or change in Syria.
2011-08-09 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive