Trump’s Support Reinforces MbS’s Hold on Power as Succession Nears The US president’s public backing during his visit strengthens Mohammed bin Salman’s rule, silences rivals, and signals American support amid shifting Saudi power dynamics By Ali Hussain / The Media Line The path to the Saudi throne appears increasingly clear for Crown Prince Mohammed bin […]
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The Media Line: Trump’s Support Reinforces MbS’s Hold on Power as Succession Nears
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Trump’s Support Reinforces MbS’s Hold on Power as Succession Nears
The US president’s public backing during his visit strengthens Mohammed bin Salman’s rule, silences rivals, and signals American support amid shifting Saudi power dynamics
By Ali Hussain / The Media Line
The path to the Saudi throne appears increasingly clear for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MbS), following US President Donald Trump’s high-profile visit to Saudi Arabia in May 2025. Trump’s public praise for the crown prince, delivered during a major investment forum in Riyadh, reinforced MbS’s international stature and sent a strong message of US alignment with the Saudi heir.
At the Saudi-US Investment Forum, Trump called MbS “an incredible man” and “my friend,” celebrating his leadership and domestic reforms. He also announced a $600 billion Saudi investment commitment to the United States, spanning sectors such as defense, energy, and tech. Trump’s remarks drew applause when he expressed his wish that “Saudi Arabia … will soon be joining the Abraham Accords,” and he emphasized a renewed partnership by stating, “No one will be able to destabilize his rule.”