What did Saudi Arabia gain by exporting Wahhabism with its support for militant Islam and jihad? Wouldn’t this backfire eventually?

Saudi Arabia's support for Wahhabism and its exportation of this ideology, particularly through funding mosques, schools, and religious institutions abroad, has been motivated by several factors:

Domestic Stability: Wahhabism, a conservative interpretation of Islam, has been historically intertwined with the Saudi state since the formation of the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The ruling Al Saud family has sought to maintain its legitimacy and control by aligning itself with Wahhabi religious authorities and promoting this version of Islam within the country.

Regional Influence: By exporting Wahhabism, Saudi Arabia has sought to exert influence in the Muslim world and beyond. This has allowed Saudi Arabia to position itself as a leading voice in the Muslim world and as a counterbalance to other regional powers.

Counterbalance to Iran: Saudi Arabia views itself as a bulwark against Iranian influence in the Middle East. Promoting Wahhabism and supporting Sunni Islamist groups has been seen as a way to counter the perceived expansionist ambitions of Shia Iran and its proxies.

Ideological Warfare: The exportation of Wahhabism has also been used as a tool for ideological warfare against perceived enemies of the Saudi state, including secularism, communism, and liberal democracy. By promoting a conservative interpretation of Islam, Saudi Arabia has sought to undermine competing ideologies and maintain its grip on power.

However, there are indeed risks and potential consequences associated with the exportation of Wahhabism and the support for militant Islamist groups:

Blowback: Supporting militant Islamist groups, including those engaged in jihad, has the potential to backfire on Saudi Arabia. These groups may turn against their benefactors or carry out attacks that threaten Saudi interests, both domestically and abroad.

Destabilization: The spread of extremist ideologies can contribute to regional instability and conflicts, which can ultimately undermine Saudi Arabia's security and stability. Militant Islamist groups may pose a threat not only to Saudi Arabia but also to neighbouring countries and the broader international community.

International Pressure: Saudi Arabia's support for Wahhabism and its links to militant Islamist groups have drawn criticism and condemnation from the international community, particularly in the wake of terrorist attacks carried out by groups with ideological ties to Wahhabism.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has taken steps to address some of these concerns, including cracking down on extremist elements within the country, moderating its rhetoric, and diversifying its economy away from reliance on oil revenue. However, the long-term consequences of Saudi Arabia's support for Wahhabism and militant Islamism remain complex and uncertain.