Could Aramco Topple Bin Salman?

In this episode, the discussion examines the Saudi regime’s resilience, the factors sustaining its power, and the risks posed by Mohammed bin Salman’s escalating war against Yemen. Despite its vast financial resources, Western backing, and religious legitimacy, the Saudi regime faces a critical vulnerability in its dependence on oil revenues, particularly those generated by Aramco. The episode explores how Yemeni military operations against Saudi oil infrastructure could threaten the kingdom’s economic foundations. It also examines possible motives behind bin Salman’s escalation, including his calculations regarding Iran and expectations of US and Israeli military support. The central question is whether his strategy will strengthen his position or undermine the very foundations of his rule.