US President Donald Trump is preparing to welcome Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to the White House in a high-stakes diplomatic visit centred on major defence and business agreements.
Red Carpet Treatment and High-Stakes Diplomacy
The visit marks the crown prince's first trip to the United States since the 2018 killing of Saudi critic Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents in Istanbul, an event that triggered global outrage. US intelligence agencies have concluded that MBS approved the capture or killing of Khashoggi, though the crown prince has denied ordering the operation while acknowledging responsibility as the kingdom's leader.
During a full day of White House diplomacy scheduled for Tuesday, the two leaders will hold talks in the Oval Office, share lunch in the Cabinet Room, and attend a formal black-tie dinner in the evening, signalling a return to warm relations despite the Khashoggi controversy.
Major Defence and Business Deals Expected
President Trump confirmed to reporters on Monday that the US will be selling F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, which has formally requested to purchase 48 of the advanced aircraft. This potential sale represents a significant enhancement to Saudi military capabilities.
The visit also aims to capitalise on a massive $600 billion Saudi investment pledge made during President Trump's visit to the kingdom in May 2025. A senior White House official told Reuters that substantial US-Saudi deals spanning technology, manufacturing, and defence sectors are expected to be advanced during the meetings.
Broader Implications for US-Saudi Relations
This high-profile reception signals the Trump administration's prioritisation of strategic and economic partnerships over human rights concerns. The warming relationship comes despite ongoing criticism from lawmakers and human rights groups regarding Saudi Arabia's human rights record and the Khashoggi assassination.
The outcome of these talks could significantly reshape Middle East alliances and defence partnerships, with the potential F-35 sale representing a major shift in regional military balance. The substantial business deals under discussion highlight the continuing economic importance of the US-Saudi relationship to both nations.
