Trump Hosts MBS in Washington for High-Stakes Strategic Reset

On November 18, 2025, President Donald Trump welcomed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) to the White House in a meeting that underscores a renewed, significant U.S.–Saudi partnership.

Deepening Ties Across Defense, Economy, and Technology

Central to the agenda is a proposed U.S.–Saudi security guarantee. While not structured as a formal treaty, this defense pact — being negotiated ahead of the trip — could give Riyadh stronger assurances.

In parallel, Trump confirmed plans to sell Saudi Arabia advanced F-35 fighter jets, a move that would mark Saudi Arabia as the first Middle Eastern country outside Israel to acquire the stealth aircraft.

Beyond military cooperation, both sides are eyeing broader economic collaboration. Saudi Arabia is expected to invest heavily in U.S. technology, especially in artificial intelligence, rare-earth materials, and potentially even civilian nuclear energy.

According to Saudi officials, the investment pledge could rise to $1 trillion, up from earlier figures.

Political and Diplomatic Overtones

The timing and optics of the visit are laden with symbolism. This marks MBS’s first trip to Washington since the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi — a deeply controversial episode that strained U.S.–Saudi relations.

In the Oval Office, Trump defended MBS, asserting that the Crown Prince “knew nothing” of Khashoggi’s killing — a line at odds with earlier U.S. intelligence assessments.

In response to an ABC reporter’s question on the matter, Trump sharply criticized the journalist, calling the question disrespectful to his guest.
Axios
MBS offered a measured reply, acknowledging the pain caused by the incident and pointing to reforms Saudi Arabia has made since.

A Potential Middle East Turning Point

Underlying much of the diplomacy is talk of normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel. Trump reportedly told MBS that now, with the Gaza war allegedly winding down, Riyadh should seriously consider rejoining the Abraham Accords.
Axios
According to U.S. officials, MBS did not reject the idea — though significant gaps remain on how to address Palestinian statehood concerns.

If realized, a normalization deal could reshape regional alignments — especially when paired with the defense and economic agreements being negotiated.

Why This Matters

Strategic realignment: The U.S. is reaffirming a strong alliance with a pivotal Middle Eastern power.

Economic opportunity: Massive Saudi investment in U.S. tech and infrastructure signals long-term commitment.

Risk and reputation: Trump’s embrace of MBS risks reigniting controversies tied to human rights and the Khashoggi case.