Washington: A friendly get-together and a series of signed agreements are anticipated as Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) makes his full return to the political stage in Washington. His last visit in 2018 was overshadowed by the murder of Saudi critic Jamal Khashoggi, an event that strained US-Saudi relations. However, the bilateral ties have largely recovered since then, especially after President Trump’s visit to Riyadh in 2025, where he announced a $600 billion Saudi investment in the US.
According to Deutsche Welle, the current discussions in Washington are likely to focus on artificial intelligence, investment, and collaboration on defense, security, and nuclear issues, given the fragile security situation in the Middle East. In recent months, the region has seen heightened tensions following attacks by Israel and the US on Iran’s nuclear facilities and subsequent conflicts involving Hamas in Gaza.
Security arrangements are a key focus for MBS during this visit. He aims to secure a security deal akin to the one Trump offered to Qatar, following Israel’s attack on Hamas leadership in Doha. This deal, enacted via executive order, bypassed Senate ratification and may expire at the end of Trump’s term. Michael Stephens from the Royal United Services Institute notes the urgency in finalizing a defense pact with Saudi Arabia.
Prior to the recent conflict in Gaza, Saudi Arabia was on the verge of signing a US-brokered normalization deal with Israel, part of the Abraham Accords. This potential trilateral agreement involved US security guarantees and a Saudi civil nuclear program. However, the war in Gaza shifted Saudi priorities towards a two-state solution, a proposal rejected by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Despite this, Trump remains optimistic about Saudi Arabia eventually joining the Abraham Accords. He has expressed confidence that the Kingdom will normalize relations with Israel soon. However, Neil Quilliam from Chatham House argues that Saudi Arabia will not commit to normalization at this time. Instead, discussions in Washington will likely focus on Saudi support for Trump’s Gaza peace process and financial aid for reconstruction efforts.
Washington’s agenda also includes concerns over Saudi Arabia’s recent defense agreement with Pakistan and its potential nuclear implications. Additionally, the US is keen to discuss Saudi Arabia’s position in the global tech race, particularly regarding investments in American artificial intelligence and the ongoing “computer chip war.”
Despite ongoing controversies, the meeting is expected to be productive. Disagreements may arise over oil production levels and human rights issues, but Michael Stephens believes these differences will not overshadow the discussions. He anticipates a constructive meeting as both sides address significant geopolitical challenges.