Meeting Between Crown Prince and President Trump
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) is set to meet with President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday. This marks MBS’s first trip to the U.S. since 2018, a period that saw tensions rise following the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi operatives in Istanbul.
Khashoggi, a critical voice against the Saudi monarchy, was murdered after entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul to obtain marriage documents. The incident resulted in a significant international outcry and diplomatic fallout for Saudi Arabia. While the government insisted that rogue agents acted without orders, the implications pointed to MBS’s involvement, leading to job dismissals among officials and a trial for a number of suspects.
Critics contend that the investigation into Khashoggi’s death was inadequate, arguing that Western nations have not held Saudi Arabia accountable. The Turkish government has also expressed frustration regarding how the situation has been handled.
During his campaign, President Joe Biden promised to hold MBS accountable for his alleged role in the murder, but after economic challenges arose, his stance softened. Despite some cooperation on oil production, Saudi leaders appeared unready to overlook Biden’s previous “pariah” remarks.
In 2021, an intelligence report stated that MBS had sanctioned Khashoggi’s assassination but did not recommend taking action against him. The report included disturbing details, such as the use of a bone saw during the murder.
The Biden administration concluded it could not completely sever ties with Saudi Arabia, which plays a crucial role in U.S. interests regarding Iran and terrorism. Any break could drive Saudi relationships closer to China.
With Trump’s return to office in 2025, there has been a shift in U.S.-Saudi relations. The Crown Prince received a warm welcome during a May visit to Saudi Arabia, where he promised significant investments in the U.S.
Trump expressed optimism about these investments, indicating a possible increase in the expected amount. As MBS visits the White House, he faces expectations to deliver on his investment commitments, which currently have a long way to go to meet previous promises.
Recently, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met with the head of the Saudi Public Investment Fund to strategize on enhancing investments in the U.S. However, the decline in oil prices presents challenges to achieving these goals.
Saudi Arabia seeks various benefits from the U.S., including technology transfers and potential defense agreements. Achieving these objectives might be complicated unless Riyadh adjusts its expectations.
While MBS may have leverage to negotiate, the Trump administration remains hesitant about extending normal relations with Israel and participating in the Abraham Accords unless significant agreements are made by other parties. Analysts believe any advancement towards Israeli normalization will hinge on concessions from Israel regarding Palestinian statehood.
Israeli leaders are under pressure from right-leaning factions to reject any plans for Palestinian statehood assured by Trump, especially in light of his recent peace proposals.
In anticipation of the meeting on Tuesday, Israeli politicians are anxious, recognizing Trump’s popularity and MBS’s awareness of it. Observers suggest that something significant may emerge from the discussions at the White House, though the exact details remain uncertain.
