Saudi Arabia-US Deal: Saudi Arabia Achieves Major Diplomatic and Strategic Gains Under Trump Administration

Saudi Arabia has achieved significant diplomatic and strategic successes in strengthening its ties with the United States under the Trump administration. These accomplishments include securing major defense and trade agreements that were previously contingent on the full normalization of relations with Israel. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's image in Washington has seen a rapid rehabilitation, with the Trump administration signaling a clear intent to move past the Khashoggi affair and bolster relations with a nation that has pledged nearly a trillion dollars in US investments and holds significant business ties with the Trump family, while this marks a stark departure from the previous administration's approach, which had linked these agreements to broader peace efforts in the Middle East.

A Pivotal Shift in US Policy

The Trump administration has notably dropped a long-standing condition that Washington had insisted upon before finalizing major defense and trade agreements with Saudi Arabia: full normalization with Israel. This represents a significant diplomatic victory for Riyadh. Previously, the Biden administration had articulated that any comprehensive US-Saudi deal could only proceed if its three components—bilateral defense and trade agreements, Saudi Arabia's normalization with Israel, and Israel ensuring a path for a Palestinian state—all advanced concurrently. However, Israel had rejected the prospect of a Palestinian state, and Saudi Arabia had not softened its stance. Now, the Trump administration has decoupled these components, allowing Saudi Arabia to secure its long-sought defense, economic, and regional security facilities without having to meet the condition of normalizing relations with Israel. This policy shift is a major relief for Saudi Arabia, providing it with the opportunity to fulfill its strategic needs without accepting a condition it was unwilling to meet.

Strategic Defense and Security Gains

This week, the United States officially designated Saudi Arabia as a Major Non-NATO Ally. This status grants Saudi Arabia access to advanced military technology, enhanced defense cooperation, and participation in joint military exercises with the US, Notably bolstering its security capabilities, while concurrently, the US has advanced plans for the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, which will be similar to those operated by Israel. The F-35 is one of the world's most advanced multi-role combat aircraft, and its acquisition will substantially enhance Saudi Arabia's air power and regional defense posture, potentially impacting the balance of power in the region, while On top of that, a new strategic defense agreement has been forged between the two nations, solidifying long-term security commitments and contributing to regional stability. This agreement will further strengthen Saudi Arabia's security, helping it to confront regional challenges.

Expanding Economic and Technological Partnerships

In line with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's ambitious efforts to diversify Saudi Arabia's economy away from its reliance on oil, the two countries have launched an AI cooperation framework. This framework includes the approval for the sale of advanced chips to Saudi Arabia, which are crucial for the development of artificial intelligence and high-tech industries. This collaboration is expected to Notably aid Saudi Arabia in its economic diversification goals and its investment in knowledge-based sectors, aligning with its 'Vision 2030' objectives, while Also, a critical mineral agreement has been signed, enhancing Saudi Arabia's role in global supply chains for essential resources and positioning it as a key player in mineral production and trade. The path has also been opened for increased cooperation in nuclear energy, providing Saudi Arabia access. To American expertise and technology for peaceful nuclear programs, which is vital for its energy security.

Regional Influence and Diplomatic Successes

The Trump administration has also acceded to several of Mohammed bin Salman's regional requests. This includes agreeing to assist in ending the civil war in Sudan, a conflict that has been a significant regional concern for Saudi Arabia, while such US support will undoubtedly help Saudi Arabia solidify its diplomatic role and influence in the region, allowing it to play a more active part in regional stability. In the Oval Office, the Crown Prince characterized these new agreements as mutually beneficial for both the United States and Saudi Arabia. Sitting beside President Trump on Tuesday, he stated, "Today is a very important time in our history. " This declaration underscores the depth and significance of this new era in bilateral relations, where Saudi Arabia. Has successfully advanced its strategic priorities on multiple fronts and established a solid partnership with the United States.