In Saudi Arabia, Shiites and the State Form a Shaky Alliance

Saudi leaders are on full alert after Islamic State affiliates claimed credit for the bombings of Shiite mosques in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province on May 21 and May 29. Though the attacks display little technical sophistication, Riyadh is attempting to secure the region without inciting sectarian violence. Officially, the government has broadcast the message that authorities alone should handle security activities. In practice, however, Saudi police and local Shiites have been able to work past their long-standing disputes to tacitly cooperate in securing Eastern Province, which hosts the majority of Saudi oil production and energy-related infrastructure.