Saudi Arabian King Dies

King Abdullah Dies at 90

King Abdullah in 2007.
Via: Dylan Martinez

King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia died last Friday at age 90. Coming to throne at old age, the king was known as a cautious reformer, and a close ally with the United States. His successor, Crown Prince Salman, announced in a televised statement that the king died  and he had assumed the throne. Saudi Arabia, the world's largest exporter of oil, is already in a struggle with Iran for regional dominance, and the king's death will certainly add more uncertainty for the country. Abdullah was one of the few tyrants left in the world, and he did not allow basic rights to citizens such as free speech or dissent. But, the king modernized the kingdom, giving women the right to vote, and establishing a Western-style University.  

Saudi Arabia is a top supplier of arms to rebels overthrowing the Syrian government, and is also a leading member of the U.S lead fight against ISIS. Salman, the king's half-brother, pledged to continue Abdullah's policies. President Obama traveled to Saudi Arabia Tuesday, giving his condolences and meeting the new king. Obama is boosting its alliance with the kingdom, and it is clear that Saudi Arabia will be a major ally in the fight against ISIS.  

Via: New York Times

 JV