I at least explained why I did not consider THIS to be a double standard.

"You are confusing the idea of "...tell them what to do" with "supporting what they do". And the types of issues involving religious tolerance is a bit different from various international political concerns."

When I dispute certain arguments or claims, it is 'almost' always on the basis of weak argument argument forms, not based on whether or not 'something happened'.

   It is quite possible, as beardedbruce and Carol C do regularly, to quote 'facts' and post articles & links back & forth endlessly, without much clarification of the basic premises that are being assumed by each side. The Middle East situation has been SO complex for SO long, that both sides have plenty of ammunition to accuse each other of many transgressions.....just as it was with Northern Ireland and the Baltic states before.

There is **NO WAY** the USA could possibly walk a line that is fair & reasonable to both Israel & the Saudis (or the Palestinians)without offending both/all of them! Thus, political & economic expediency get involved, and BOTH sides get upset at different times.

I am quite aware that the Saudis' attitude toward religious tolerance is outdated & rigid...but that, Bruce, doesn't 'prove' or imply exactly what you suggest it does.