"A fascinating and frightening look at American Foreign Policy"

After 9/11 many in the media began to search deeper into the unhealthy relationship that has existed between Saudi Arabia and the United States. Questions began to be asked, particularly in light of the fact that fifteen out of the nineteen hijackers were Saudi citizens.

Robert Baer was a case officer in the Directorate of Operations for the CIA from 1976 to 1997. He is very familiar with the intrigues of the Middle East, and quite appropriately has dedicated his book: Sleeping with the Devil: How Washington Sold Our Soul for Saudi Crude, to Danny Pearl, the Wall Street journalist, who was kidnapped and murdered by terrorists.

Perhaps, after you read the book, you may come away wondering if these murderers were financed by the Wahhabis of Saudi Arabia, the powerful Islamic sect that rules the streets of Saudi Arabia. Did they also contribute to the financing of the terrorists of 9/11?

Baer comprehensively delves into many of the stories that have been exposed in the media over the years pertaining to the Saudi royal family and their outlandish excesses and decadence. Although, if you have been keeping up with the saga throughout the years, you may find that some of the information is not new. However, there are some interesting tidbits that may have escaped your attention.

Many diplomats and other State Department officials, who are no longer in the employ of the US government, are now employees of some Saudi-backed entity. As Baer points out, Prince Bandar, Saudi Arabia's longtime ambassador to the USA, once bragged to an associate that he is careful to look after American government officials when they return to private life. Moreover, according to Bandar, when you're rich and arrogant enough, you can buy the luxury of candor. This was mentioned to a journalist in relation to the many Saudi friends that hold prominent positions in the US government. In other words, many who hold or influence the levers of power adhere to the adage, hear no evil, and speak no evil.

Baer also traces the cozy unhealthy relationship between the US and the Saudis from the time oil was discovered in Saudi Arabia until today. A relationship that is predicated on greed, that could one-day lead to disastrous results.

The book's sharp focus and clear presentation makes for an entertaining exposé. Baer definitely has given his readers a fascinating and frightening look at American foreign policy, and much to think about and ponder as to where it will all lead.

Reviewed by Norman Goldman
Courtesy Bookpleasures
Posted October 5, 2003