Saudi clerics blaming the Shi’a is nothing new, though over the past several years that has not been government policy. These clerics ‘got the memo’ that the Kingdom would be trying to develop tolerance for religious diversity (starting within Islam), but they didn’t like what the memo said. And so, they are more than willing to take advantage of lack of control of the Internet to get their own message out.

As much as I admire correspondent Donna Abu-Nasr, I think she is falling into a stereotype trap in this piece. Yes, there is friction between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Yes, there is religious friction between the Sunni and Shi’a. That sectarian difference (as well as ethnic differences) do underlie much of the conflict between the two states, but they do not define it. Geopolitical differences—who is going to be the major power in the Gulf—is an entirely adequate explanation for current frictions. Religious differences don’t need to be dragged in.

Some Saudis do picture the Shi’a as minions of Satan, that’s an absolute fact. Those, however, are the ones for whom the concept of religious tolerance makes no sense whatsoever. They will happily mingle politics and religion if it serves their goal. But they are fools to do so. Luckily, they are outside the mainstream and outside the power centers of the country.

Saudi clerics criticize Shiites for destabilizing
DONNA ABU-NASR

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Hardline Sunni clerics accused Shiites Sunday of destabilizing Muslim countries and humiliating Sunnis, just days before a Muslim interfaith conference called by Saudi Arabia’s king.

The attacks on Iran, Iraq and Hezbollah _ though contrary to official policy _ highlight the sharp, growing distrust between Islam’s two arms, and its potential to cause more unrest.

In a strongly worded statement, the 22 clerics savaged Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants, saying the Lebanese Shiite group has tricked other Muslims into believing it is against Jews and Americans.
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The statement appeared on several Web sites Sunday, including http://www.almoslim.com, which is run by Sheik Nasser al-Omar, one of the signers. The 22 clerics are known for their radical views and have previously released virulent anti-Shiite statements.

A Saudi official told The Associated Press that the clerics who issued the statement do not represent the official Saudi religious establishment, and their views do not reflect those adopted by the government. He spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue.
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