Composite Security Dilemma and Intra-Alliance Debate: How Can We Explain Saudi Arabia’s Simultaneously Strained Relations with Both Its Ally and Adversary?

Abstract

This paper attempts to explain why Saudi Arabia has strained relations simultaneously with both its ally the United States and adversary Iran in the period of 2010–2020. Saudi Arabia’s position in this situation is analysed through the lens of Snyder’s composite security dilemma model. This approach integrates the variables of alliance security dilemma and adversary security dilemma to provide a framework for understanding state behaviours. This study argues that Saudi Arabia behaves within a composite security dilemma within the US-Iran-Saudi strategic triangle. The findings indicate that when the US adopts a strategy of confrontation towards Iran, Saudi Arabia’s alliance security dilemma and adversary security dilemma intensifies. Conversely, when the US pursues a strategy of confrontation against Iran, the severity of Saudi Arabia’s alliance security dilemma decreases, while its adversary security dilemma intensifies.