An example of this is that when a U2 (photo recon jet) crashed, the location was undisclosed for fear of problems with the government where the air base was in the Middle East.
The leaders of some of the smaller kingdoms know the US is trying to keep Muslim extremists in check and keep peace in the Middle East.
Peace and stability is good for the US and these governments.
Saddam Hussein was a major threat to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and smaller states than even Kuwait.
"The US has fostered close relationships with governments in the Middle East. Some governments have helped the US despite the fact that it is unpopular with the people."
As we should, if we are to be "peace" makers as the remaining superpower we must be fair about it. As an American I want no part of taking advantage of any nation. That is not to say I expect to turn the other cheek if some stick a finger in our collective eye.
Old Saddam wasn't just paying other Muslim nations for his protection, sadly his biggest protectors were our supposed allies.