Saudi Arabia signed and ratified the Biological Weapons Convention when it was opened for signature in 1972, but that time Saudi’s did not have intentions of acquiring biological weapons. Since then, various regional developments have increased the significance of Biological and Chemical Weapons as useful armament.
The Saudi Succession Puzzle
By establishing an organized process of selection and factoring in contingencies, King Abdullah is hoping for a smooth and orderly transition. But age and health are not on his side and the current wave of political unrest in the region has only complicated the challenges facing him.