US and Saudi Arabia: A Complex Relationship Under Scrutiny

The relationship between the United States and Saudi Arabia is facing renewed scrutiny following controversial remarks made by former President Donald Trump regarding the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. During a recent interview in the Oval Office with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, commonly referred to as MbS, Trump downplayed the gravity of the situation, stating, “Things happen.” This statement has reignited discussions about the implications of the US-Saudi alliance, particularly in light of Khashoggi’s death in 2018, which the CIA has linked to MbS.

Trump’s comments included a dismissive remark about Khashoggi, suggesting that “a lot of people didn’t like that gentleman.” He further absolved MbS of responsibility for the murder, stating, “He knew nothing about it, and we can leave it at that.” Such statements have been criticized as undermining the significance of Khashoggi’s death and the broader issues of human rights in Saudi Arabia. In contrast, MbS characterized the incident as a “huge mistake,” attempting to convey his recognition of its severity.

Strategic Interests and Military Agreements

The visit by Trump, which some analysts believe favored Saudi Arabia more than the United States, resulted in significant military agreements. Trump approved the sale of F-35 fighter jets and advanced artificial intelligence technology to Saudi Arabia, while also granting the nation “major non-NATO ally” status. In exchange, Saudi Arabia pledged to invest nearly $1 trillion in the US economy, although the lack of a clear timeline for this investment raises questions about its feasibility.

Critics, including The Washington Post, argue that Trump’s approach prioritizes strategic interests over ethical considerations, labeling his statements as “lies” that overshadow the complexities of the US-Saudi relationship. David Ignatius, also writing for The Washington Post, contends that cultivating a relationship with MbS could be beneficial for the US in the long term. He points out that MbS’s potential for long-term rule and his efforts in modernizing the kingdom are critical for the security of the Middle East.

Shifts in Foreign Relations

The US-Saudi relationship is not without its challenges, particularly concerning human rights issues. Joe Biden, during his 2020 presidential campaign, vowed to make Saudi Arabia a global “pariah” due to its human rights record. Nevertheless, the dynamics shifted dramatically following the spike in oil prices after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, leading to Biden’s widely publicized “fist bump” with MbS during a visit to Riyadh in 2022.

As Saudi Arabia strengthens economic ties with countries like China and signs defense agreements with Pakistan, it is essential to consider whether the kingdom still views the US as a necessary ally. While both nations currently perceive mutual benefits in their relationship, analysts suggest that the future may hinge on the US’s reliability and predictability as a partner.

In conclusion, the evolving nature of the US-Saudi relationship raises critical questions about the balance between ethical considerations and strategic interests. As both nations navigate their complex alliance, the implications for international relations and regional security remain significant.