The United States and Saudi Arabia recently solidified their partnership through agreements on civil nuclear energy and advanced weaponry sales during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit. President Donald Trump designated Riyadh a major non-NATO ally, emphasizing the deepening military cooperation between the two nations.
The civil nuclear energy agreement sets the stage for a long-term multi-billion-dollar partnership adhering to stringent nonproliferation standards. Additionally, a significant defense sale package was approved, including the sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets and hundreds of tanks to Saudi Arabia.
Despite Israeli concerns about the F-35 deal potentially impacting regional military balance, Trump proceeded with the agreement. Moreover, the Saudi crown prince pledged to boost the country’s financial commitments to the US from $600 billion to a whopping $1 trillion.
The details of these deals remain undisclosed but are expected to involve investments in various American industries, including artificial intelligence, and the procurement of jet engines and other equipment.
During a White House reception, Trump formally designated Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally, a status held by only a select few countries globally. This move underscored the strategic importance of the US-Saudi alliance in the region.
Amidst these agreements, controversy surrounding the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi resurfaced. Trump publicly stated that bin Salman had no involvement in the killing, contradicting US intelligence assessments. The crown prince denied orchestrating the murder but acknowledged responsibility as the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia.
Trump’s unwavering support for bin Salman’s denial of involvement in the Khashoggi murder further strained relations with US intelligence agencies. The president dismissed questions on potential conflicts of interest in his dealings with Saudi Arabia and defended the Saudi leadership against accusations of human rights violations.
As the US-Saudi partnership deepens, the geopolitical implications of these agreements extend beyond arms deals, reflecting evolving alliances and power dynamics in the Middle East. The alignment between the US and Saudi Arabia in the realms of defense and energy signifies a strategic convergence that could reshape regional dynamics in the years to come.
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