2018 №2(59) Article 9

Rodriguez A.M.

The 1990–1991 Kuwait Crisis   and the Growth of Extremism in Saudi Arabia. P. 68-74.

UDC 327(536.8:530)«1990/1991»

The article treats the grave deterioration of the intrapolitical situation in Saudi Arabia provoked by social and economic complications and triggered off by the Iraqi invasion and occupation of Kuwait, known as the Gulf War (1990–1991). Since Iraq presented a serious threat to the Saudi royal family, Saudi Arabia got involved in the conflict and agreed to let Western coalition forces (about 600 000 people) headed by the USA settle in its territory. The situation aroused social indignation and turbulent protests especially among orthodox Wahhabi ulama (guardians and interpreters of religious knowledge), numerous theologians including students of religious educational institutions (schools, madrassas, religious universities, etc.), and pro-western urban dwellers (intelligentsia, officers, clerks, emancipated women, etc.). The latter hoped for postwar liberalization, relaxation of religious restrictions, social freedoms. Their hopes were blasted by the Saudi support of radical and foreign terrorist organizations. Supported by Saudi authorities, religious bigots joined radical and terrorist organizations. Radical Islamic terrorists flooded the country. The Saudi royal family were caught in the crossfire of regional politics. The political crisis brought about unprecedented terrorism aimed against foreign missions and military bases.

 

war, extremism, ulama, censorship, society, terrorist attacks.

 

REFERENCES

 

  1. Alʼ-Kods alʼ-Arabi [Text]. – L.
  2. Kompas [Text] / ITAR-TASS. – M.
  3. Abir, M. Saudi Arabia: Government, Society, and the Gulf Crisis [Text]. – L. ; N. Y., 1994.
  4. Gause, F.G. Saudi Arabia: Desert Storm and after [Text]. – Florida, 1993.
  5. The Muslim World [Text]. – Leiden.
  6. The Wall Street Journal [Text]. – N. Y.
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