US President Donald Trump faced criticism for his lavish welcome of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) during the latter’s first visit to the US since the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Senator Bernie Sanders took to social media to accuse Trump of disliking Muslims “except those who are billionaire autocrats who can make his family even richer,” highlighting the contrast between Trump’s harsh rhetoric and his warm reception of MBS.
The Saudi Crown Prince’s visit featured military flyovers, cannon salutes, a horse parade, and an opulent gala on the South Lawn, marking one of the most extravagant events of Trump’s presidency. During an Oval Office press moment, Trump sharply rebuked a reporter who questioned the family’s business ties with Saudi Arabia and MBS’s alleged involvement in Khashoggi’s murder. Trump defended MBS, calling him “phenomenal” and denied the crown prince’s knowledge of the killing.
MBS addressed the allegations, calling the murder “painful” and a “huge mistake,” and assured improvements to investigation systems to prevent future incidents. He also condemned critics who he said were advancing the purposes of Osama bin Laden by dwelling on the 9/11 victims’ deaths.
Despite US intelligence implicating MBS, Trump praised the crown prince’s work on human rights and other efforts. The visit included a state dinner hosted by First Lady Melania Trump and announcements of major defence and commercial agreements, such as the potential sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia and investments in AI infrastructure.
This high-profile visit underscored the complex geopolitical ties between the US and Saudi Arabia amid ongoing controversies, intensifying political debates back home.
