Trump Threatens Tariffs, Saudi Oil Stays Flowing to US
The Hill reports Trump's latest declaration against Iran, vowing tariffs on nations that trade with Tehran. This tough talk conveniently sidesteps the consistent US dependence on oil from Saudi Arabia, a nation whose human rights record is, charitably, complex, and whose regional actions have often mirrored Iran's in terms of destabilization. (Remember Yemen? The US provided the bombs.) One might
inquire why nations 'doing business' with one Middle Eastern power warrants punitive tariffs, while another, with an equally problematic track record, receives billions in US military aid and diplomatic cover. It appears the 'national security interest' changes depending on who's cutting the check, or more accurately, who's not challenging certain regional hegemons. This isn't about 'America
First' so much as 'Strategic Partners First', especially the ones who keep the oil flowing and continue their robust lobbying efforts in Washington (AIPAC, U.S.-Saudi Business Council – they all have open doors).