Former CIA Agent Claims Saudi Intervention Shielded Nuclear Scientist AQ Khan

A former CIA officer has revealed a startling reason the US did not target Pakistani nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan. John Kiriakou stated that Saudi Arabia directly intervened to protect Khan. This happened despite the US having detailed operational intelligence on his whereabouts.

Kiriakou suggested this Saudi protection was likely tied to its own strategic nuclear interests. The revelation provides a new perspective on global non-proliferation efforts.

The Direct Request from Saudi Arabia

John Kiriakou served as a CIA analyst and counterterrorism officer. He gave a detailed account in an interview. He said a colleague was directly handling the Khan file. The Israeli approach would have been to simply eliminate the threat.

The US knew where Khan lived and his daily routines. This made him a viable target. However, the operation was called off. According to Kiriakou, the Saudis came to US officials with a direct plea. They asked America to leave Khan alone.

The Saudis emphasized their close relationship with Pakistan. They expressed their support for the scientist. This high-level request forced a change in US policy. The White House then issued a stand-down order.

Broader Implications for Nuclear Proliferation

This alleged intervention raises questions about Saudi Arabia’s historical ambitions. Kiriakou later worked with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. There, he learned that CIA and IAEA officials confirmed the stand-down order.

The reason was consistently linked to Saudi demands. Experts have long speculated about Saudi nuclear ambitions. This account suggests a deeper cooperation with Pakistan’s program than previously known.

Khan was a key figure in global nuclear proliferation networks. He supplied technology to North Korea, Iran, and Libya. His activities fundamentally altered global security. Allowing him to operate freely had lasting consequences.

The claim that Saudi intervention protected AQ Khan adds a complex layer to the history of nuclear proliferation. This revelation about the CIA’s decision highlights the difficult trade-offs in international diplomacy and security.

Info at your fingertips

Who is John Kiriakou?

John Kiriakou is a former CIA counterterrorism officer and analyst. He spent 15 years with the agency. He is known for his public statements on intelligence matters.

Why was AQ Khan significant?

Abdul Qadeer Khan is considered the father of Pakistan’s atomic bomb. His work made Pakistan the first Islamic nuclear power. He also ran a prolific network for smuggling nuclear technology.

What countries did AQ Khan help?

His network provided nuclear technology to Iran, North Korea, and Libya. This dramatically accelerated their weapons programs. His actions made him a central figure in global proliferation concerns.

How did Saudi Arabia protect him?

According to Kiriakou, the Saudi government made a direct appeal to US officials. They insisted that the US leave Khan alone. This high-level diplomatic pressure was reportedly successful.

What was the US response?

The White House allegedly ordered intelligence agencies to halt any plans against Khan. This decision was reportedly confirmed by multiple officials from the CIA and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Trusted Sources

Hindustan Times, ANI