Kings and Presidents

Kings and Presidents examines the complex relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States from the 1940s to present day. The book focuses on meetings and interactions between Saudi kings and American presidents across multiple administrations. The narrative follows key historical events including the formation of ARAMCO, the 1973 oil embargo, the Iranian Revolution, and post-9/11 developments. Author Bruce Riedel draws on his experience as a CIA officer and presidential advisor to provide perspective on diplomatic exchanges and policy decisions between the two nations. Former National Security Council member Riedel chronicles the evolution of U.S.-Saudi cooperation on intelligence, military matters, and regional security challenges. The text incorporates declassified documents and first-hand accounts from officials who shaped this strategic partnership. The book reveals how personal relationships between leaders impact international alliances, while exploring tensions between American democratic values and Saudi Arabia's monarchical system. This examination of Saudi-American relations provides context for understanding current Middle East dynamics and policy choices.

Readers appreciate the detailed insider perspective on US-Saudi relations, drawing from Riedel's decades of CIA experience and direct interactions with Saudi leaders. Many note the book provides context for understanding current tensions, particularly around Yemen and Iran. Specific praise focuses on the chapter covering Prince Bandar's influence and the examination of religious dynamics within the Saudi royal family. Common criticisms include: - Too much focus on historical background rather than current policy - Lack of deeper analysis on economic relationships - Limited coverage of human rights issues Several readers point out factual errors in dates and names, particularly in early chapters. Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (89 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (52 ratings) Notable reader comment: "Strong on palace intrigue and personal relationships between leaders, weaker on broader policy implications" - Amazon reviewer Many readers recommend pairing this with Robert Jordan's "Desert Diplomat" for a more complete perspective.

Inside the Kingdom by Robert Lacey A chronicle of Saudi Arabia's modern history through interviews with royals, religious leaders, and citizens reveals the inner workings of the Saudi state and royal family from 1979 to 2009.

The Oil Kings by Andrew Scott Cooper The book details the relationship between the U.S., Iran, and Saudi Arabia during the 1970s oil crisis and its impact on regional power dynamics.

The Other Saudis by Toby Matthiesen An examination of Saudi Arabia's Shiite minority and their role in the kingdom's political development from the Ottoman period through the Arab Spring.

On Saudi Arabia by Karen Elliott House A portrait of Saudi Arabia's political system, society, and ruling family based on three decades of reporting and interviews within the kingdom.

America's Kingdom by Robert Vitalis The book traces the development of the U.S.-Saudi relationship through the lens of ARAMCO and the oil industry from the 1930s through the 1990s.

🔹 Author Bruce Riedel spent 30 years as a CIA officer, serving as a senior advisor on South Asia and the Middle East to four U.S. presidents. 🔹 The book reveals that Saudi Arabia secretly helped fund Pakistan's nuclear weapons program, despite publicly opposing nuclear proliferation. 🔹 During the 1973 oil crisis, King Faisal of Saudi Arabia offered to secretly continue oil shipments to the U.S. military, even while maintaining the public embargo. 🔹 The author was present in the Oval Office during crucial meetings between President Bill Clinton and Saudi Crown Prince Abdullah in 2000, providing firsthand accounts of their negotiations. 🔹 The book details how the U.S.-Saudi relationship survived severe tests, including the aftermath of 9/11 when 15 of the 19 hijackers were discovered to be Saudi citizens.