The execution of 37 men convicted of terror-related crimes in Saudi Arabia has triggered many angry responses, here is twitter thread by Professor Firas Maksad, the director of Arabia foundation that shed more light on the motive behind those executions
2- Shia of Saudi Arabia been discriminated against for decades & continue to be disadvantaged, but KSA today increasingly an equal opportunity authoritarian state irrespective of sect. Amongst those executed, including the body left on display (not crucified), are several Sunnis
— Firas Maksad (@FirasMaksad) April 24, 2019
4- Saudi state seems to be employing classic carrot & stick approach towards Shia minority. Message: stick with us & your fortunes will improve as we emphasize nationalism rather than the Salafi creed. Do otherwise at your peril. https://t.co/qp11lJN8M1
— Firas Maksad (@FirasMaksad) April 24, 2019
6- Capturing this carrot & stick approach is leveling of Shia rebel hotbed of Awamiyah in 2016, rebuilding in 2018. @TheEconomist "MBS hopes reconstruction sends multiple messages. In exchange for loyalty, he is offering to treat 2m-3m Shia like 18m Sunnishttps://t.co/ElyGDSfkPc
— Firas Maksad (@FirasMaksad) April 24, 2019
8- In 2015 when ISIS suicide bomber struck Shia mosque, crown prince sent personal envoy for condolences, "tell people those martyred will be treated like soldiers martyred in battles. State will pay 1mn riyals to each martyr’s family & 0.5 mn to injured”https://t.co/YUTND2L3oh
— Firas Maksad (@FirasMaksad) April 24, 2019
9- To conclude, criticism of executions is surely warranted, but broad brush generalizations about anti-Shia motives can be off & need to be put in context. There is plenty to criticize Saudi on as of late, just get it right!
— Firas Maksad (@FirasMaksad) April 24, 2019
Nervana