Saudi Arabia: Terrorist Financing Issues
Abstract
The September 11, 2001 attacks fueled criticisms within the United States of alleged Saudi involvement in terrorism or of Saudi laxity in acting against terrorist groups. Of particular concern have been reports that funds may be flowing from Saudi Arabia and other Middle East countries to terrorist groups, largely under the guise of charitable contributions. Critics of Saudi policies have cited a number of reports that the Saudi government has permitted or encouraged fund raising in Saudi Arabia by charitable Islamic groups and foundations linked to Osama bin Laden s Al Qaeda organization or like-minded entities. The final report released by the bipartisan National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (the 9/11 Commission) indicates that the Commission found no evidence that the Saudi government as an institution or senior Saudi officials individually funded [Al Qaeda]. The report also states, however, that Saudi Arabia was a place where Al Qaeda raised money directly from individuals and through charities, and indicates that charities with significant Saudi government sponsorship may have diverted funding to Al Qaeda.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA444877
Entities
People
- Alfred B. Prados
- Christopher M. Blanchard
Organizations
- Federation of American Scientists