A question President Bush is certainly asking today.

Recall the not too distant past, with the King of Saudi Arabia visiting Mr. Bush at his Texas ranch. There were handshakes, hugs, goodwill all around. They probably had a love fest in Mr. Bush’s oil filled jacuzzi. Well, it appears the love is gone.

From the Voice of America: US ‘Surprised’ by Saudi Comments on American Role in Iraq

The Bush administration Thursday expressed surprise, and said it was seeking clarification, over remarks by Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah at the Arab League summit that the United States role in Iraq was an “illegal foreign occupation…”

Of course our being in Iraq, and totally distant to the persecution their Sunni co-religionists are experiencing, would tick off the Saudis. In addition, the Saudis certainly see the coming conflagration involving Iran. They know that they will be on the receiving end of a boatload of hurt in a region-wide war.

Let’s see how long it takes for Mr. Bush (at the urging of his family) to pull out from Iraq. Their historical ties to the House of Saud should seal the deal. Unfortunately, the family is dealing with the stubborn, intractable son.

$10 a gallon anyone?