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Since the end of World War II, the United States and Saudi Arabia have built a strong partnership based on the twin pillars of stable global energy markets and defense and security of the Gulf region. Popular perceptions of the relationship visualize it as a near-treaty alliance. While it is correct that the two countries have cooperated on a broad range of shared interests, it is also true that bilateral ties have often frayed over differences of policy and objectives. For decades, the two sides were particularly at odds over issues related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. But differences extend, as well, to the energy sector and, most recently, management of the Iran challenge. Thus, to maintain a stable, sustainable US-Saudi relationship, both sides would benefit from a more realistic, mutual understanding of the strengths and limitations of the partnership in order to avoid unrealistic expectations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]