911 Conspiracy Guys take a hit: Saudis bluntly sever ties with US. Entering Black Swan territory.

Harshest language I have ever read from a supposed ally. After cranking up criticism of the US and rejecting a seat on the Security Council, comes severed diplomatic ties and language like this from the former Saudi Intelligence chief:

Turki

'The current charade of international control over Bashar's chemical arsenal would be funny if it were not so blatantly perfidious. And designed not only to give Mr. Obama an opportunity to back down (from military strikes), but also to help Assad to butcher his people,' said Prince Turki, a member of the Saudi royal family and former director of Saudi intelligence.

And from Prince Bandar, if I am reading the Daily Mail article correctly:  h/t Drudge Report.

He told European diplomats that the United States had failed to act effectively against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, was growing closer to Tehran, and had failed to back Saudi support for Bahrain when it crushed an anti-government revolt in 2011, the source said.          There would be no further coordination with the United States over the war in Syria, where the Saudis have armed and financed rebel groups fighting Assad. The kingdom has informed the United States of its actions in Syria, and diplomats say it has respected U.S. requests not to supply the groups with advanced weaponry that the West fears could fall into the hands of al Qaeda-aligned groups.

We're in a new world until Obama is displaced, "Black Swan" territory.  Contempt is replacing respect. People who think they know what makes things tick (like the confident 9-11 conspiracy theorists) will need a RESET.  Just who exactly is left that looks to the US for leadership?   As long as the American engine of the economy is large, it will have a role but despite, not thanks to its leader.

Obama likes the perks of power but is not displeased with the decline of American influence.

Footnote1:  "We know their game.  They're trying to send a signal that we should all get involved militarily in Syria" (Chris Van Hollen, D)   Maybe so.  The relationship is still screwed and with it some or all of the recycled petrodollars.

Footnote2:  Where does this put Canada?  We're not being threatened from abroad, which is fortunate since we are relying on an irresolute US to defend us.  It also makes me glad Canad is increasing trade with the EU and the Pacific Rim.