If the government there (as in Pakistan) were to fall, what would replace it? Something worse, intelligent people fear. Hence our “support” for our “long[-]standing ally” (actually, allies) in such case(s).

Iran is our adversary, while Saudi Arabia is at least superficially our ally (as is Pakistan).

They're not attacking Saudi Arabia so much as finding another excuse to attack the USA.

Oh the balls the ignorant grow when they anonymous on the internet. Puff up little man, I'm not wasting my time but for a snicker at your absurdity.

DQ the fact that you believe Iran is a “monument” to anything is a great reason to ignore the absurdities that come from you.

On any given day of the week Iran is a monument to democracy, liberalism and human rights when compared with Saudi Arabia…

English not your first language? Or you didn't bother to read the whole sentence? Which is it?

With a handful of exceptions (and Iran isn't one of them), most countries look good when compared to our long standing ally: Saudi Arabia.

They are probably just as disgusted by our cable tv and the skimpy fashions worn by teenage girls over here. This cultural divide is why I always thought that this region was not suited for a democratic makeover, any more than Vietnam was.

On any given day of the week Iran is a monument to democracy, liberalism and human rights when compared with Saudi Arabia…
Saudi Arabia – Government

The central institution of the Saudi Arabian government is the Saudi monarchy. The Basic Law of Government adopted in 1992 declared that Saudi Arabia is a monarchy ruled by the sons and grandsons of the first king, Abd Al Aziz Al Saud. It also claims that the Qur'an is the constitution of the country, which is governed on the basis of the Sharia (Islamic Law). According to The Economist's Democracy Index, the Saudi government is the seventh most authoritarian regime from among the 167 countries rated.

There are no recognized political parties or national elections, except the local elections which were held in the year 2005 when participation was reserved for male citizens only.[10] The king's powers are theoretically limited within the bounds of Shari'a and other Saudi traditions. He also must retain a consensus of the Saudi royal family, religious leaders (ulema), and other important elements in Saudi society. The Saudi government spreads Islam by funding construction of mosques and Qur'an schools around the world. The leading members of the royal family choose the king from among themselves with the subsequent approval of the ulema.

Saudi kings have gradually developed a central government. Since 1953, the Council of Ministers, appointed by the king, has advised on the formulation of general policy and directed the activities of the growing bureaucracy. This council consists of a prime minister, the first prime minister and twenty ministers.

Legislation is by resolution of the Council of Ministers, ratified by royal decree, and must be compatible with the Shari'a. A 150-member Consultative Assembly, appointed by the King, has limited legislative rights. Justice is administered according to the Shari'a by a system of religious courts whose judges are appointed by the king on the recommendation of the Supreme Judicial Council, composed of twelve senior jurists. Independence of the judiciary is protected by law. The king acts as the highest court of appeal and has the power to pardon. Access to high officials (usually at a majlis; a public audience) and the right to petition them directly are well-established traditions.

Is it beating with a dangerous whip, cutting scaring and sometimes killing, or, is it something much less? From historical accounts of “lashings” aboard old naval vessels, few people lived past 30 or 40 lashes. So she just “accepts” without appeal??? Why? Not so bad maybe? Something else?

….and a THOUSAND LASHES for the guy? WTF?