CIA Insider Reveals Saudi Influence Shielded Nuclear Architect From U.S. Action

Ex-CIA officer John Kiriakou discloses that Saudi intervention shielded Pakistan's nuclear architect, Abdul Qadeer Khan, from U.S. assassination despite his nuclear proliferation. Kiriakou criticizes Washington's foreign policy as dictated by immediate interests over democratic ideals, while questioning Saudi nuclear ambitions.

In a startling revelation, former CIA officer John Kiriakou has claimed that Saudi diplomatic intervention prevented the United States from taking action against Abdul Qadeer Khan, the mastermind of Pakistan's nuclear program and a notorious figure in the proliferation of nuclear technology.

According to Kiriakou, the CIA had comprehensive intelligence on Khan's operations and movements but was urged to hold back due to Saudi influence. Khan, who passed away in 2021, was involved in smuggling nuclear technology to rogue states.

The ex-CIA agent suggests Saudi protection of Khan may be linked to their nuclear designs. The Saudi-Pakistani defense pact is now also under scrutiny, with Pakistani forces perceived as playing a critical role in Saudi military operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)