EXTERNAL AND SAFE POLICY OF SAUDI ARABIA IN CONDITIONS OF THE ACTUAL DISTRIBUTION OF THE NEIGHBORING SPACE

Abstract

The article analyzes both foreign and security policies of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the context of the escalation of regional confrontation in the Middle East. The radical nature of the transformation of these aspects of state activities after the events of the Arab Spring, in the face of the gradual losses of positions in the region by the United States of America, which is the traditional strategic partner of Riyadh, is underlined. The formation of the post-American Middle East space is accompanied by the escalation of several threats, primarily the activation of Iranian expansionism. It becomes the main challenge to Saudi Arabia's regional ambitions, which claims leadership in the Muslim world. The Kingdom's struggle with Tehran unfolds throughout the region, where, in conditions of continuing civil conflicts in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen, two states are conducting proxy war. It becomes the main direction of the Riyadh’s foreign policy. It requires an active and pragmatic policy based on the strengthening of national military power, formation of the stable circle of allies, prevention of the further spread of Iranian influence. Significant role in its implementation is played by a personal factor – namely, the position of the successor of the Saudi throne, Prince Mohammad bin Salman, who represents a new generation of politicians and proclaimed a course for the modernization of the state. It is based on the strategy “Saudi Vision 2030”, aimed at improving the country's competitiveness on the world stage. Today, the Kingdom’s success on this path remains questionable – it has suffered several painful defeats in the struggle for regional leadership. However, this does not mean the fallacy of the chosen course and strategy – but only demonstrates the complexity of the tasks and indicates the need to continue transformation of foreign policy and security policy in accordance with the requirements of our time.

Keywords

• saudi arabia, iran, middle east, foreign policy, regional leadership, intervention in yemen, qatar crisis, mohammad bin salman, vision of saudi arabia 2030, “checkbook diplomacy”