Saudi says it won’t take sides in Iraq conflict

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia - Saudi Arabia said on Tuesday it would not take sides in Iraqi sectarian violence, denying reports the kingdom may back Sunni Muslims in their fight against Shiites if the United States withdraws from Iraq.

“Since the start of the crisis in Iraq ... the kingdom has said it will stand at an equal distance from all Iraqi groups and does not describe itself as the guardian of any group or sect,” Foreign Minister Prince Saud al-Faisal said.

“We cooperate with all those who want a united, independent and sovereign Iraq. And we hope all Iraqi citizens receive equal rights and duties under the law,” he told a news conference.

Read the rest at MSNBC

Related Link:
Saudi March '06 Report: Iranian 'Shi'ite State' inside Iraq

Related Link:
Analysis: Saudi Royal Family, Gov't Split on Iraq

Related Link:
Saudis Say They Might Back Sunnis if U.S. Leaves Iraq

Related Link:
Leading Saudi clerics issue world-wide call for force against Iraqi Shi'ites

Related Link:
Private Saudis reportedly funding Sunni insurgents

Related Link:
Saudi denies it may back Sunnis in Iraq

Related Link:
Aide: Saudi Arabia will intervene in Iraq if U.S. withdraws

Related Link:
Analysis: Saudis Work to Curb Iran's Influence

Related Link:
Analysis: Saudis may use oil to fight Iran in Iraq