A
What happened
On November 18, 2025, President Donald Trump hosted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House, marking MBS's first visit since the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Trump dismissed concerns about Khashoggi's killing, stating that 'things happen' and asserting that MBS 'knew nothing about it.' The meeting included discussions on Saudi investments in the US, with MBS raising the planned investment from $600 billion to nearly $1 trillion. Trump also mentioned potential sales of advanced AI chips and F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. MBS highlighted the importance of a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine before Saudi Arabia could join the Abraham Accords. The visit showcased a significant shift in US-Saudi relations, focusing on economic and military cooperation despite past controversies.
★
Key insights
-
1
Investment Boost
Saudi Arabia plans to increase US investments to nearly $1 trillion.
-
2
Military Sales
Trump confirmed the sale of F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia.
-
3
Khashoggi Controversy
Trump downplayed MBS's involvement in Khashoggi's murder.
-
4
Two-State Solution
MBS insists on a clear path to peace before normalizing relations with Israel.
Takeaways
The meeting between Trump and MBS signifies a renewed focus on economic and military ties between the US and Saudi Arabia, overshadowing past controversies surrounding human rights and the Khashoggi murder.
Topics
Business Economy Politics & World International Affairs Diplomacy