Middle east Quote by Andrew Feinstein
““President Carter’s re-election campaign in 1979 commenced amid spiralling global oil prices. With Bandar’s help, Carter drafted a letter to Fahd requesting Saudi Arabia to put more oil on the market.69 Fahd responded: ‘Tell my friend, the president of the United States of America, when they need our help, they will not be disappointed.’70 He promised to do ‘anything in his power externally or internally to ensure your re-election’, since this was ‘essential if there was ever to be a just and lasting peace in the Middle East’.71 This assistance, which saw Saudi oil trading $4–5 a day below other suppliers, cost the kingdom $30m to $40m a day. In gratitude, Carter invited Bandar to the White House in early December 1979, where they discussed Middle East politics and the US–Saudi relationship.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Oil Lobby, 2015
Carter’s 1979 re‑election relied on Saudi oil subsidies, highlighting geopolitical leverage in US politics.
In simple terms: Saudi oil helped Carter win.
Key Takeaway
Recognize foreign influence.
Themes
politics
energy
foreign policy
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
historical
explanatory
When to use this quote
- election strategy
- diplomatic negotiations
- energy markets
Key Concepts
geopolitics
campaign finance
Middle East
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the long‑term costs of such alliances?
- How might transparency alter outcomes?
A Different Perspective
Reliance on external aid can compromise autonomy.
