In Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman played a pivotal role in hosting a significant meeting between Russia and the United States regarding the conflict in Ukraine. While not physically present at the talks, the 39-year-old heir apparent, who effectively leads Saudi Arabia under his father King Salman, demonstrated his influence in facilitating this potentially game-changing gathering.
Despite facing international scrutiny for his involvement in the conflict in Yemen and the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, Crown Prince Mohammed has positioned himself at the forefront of diplomatic efforts. His strategic investments in the United States have garnered attention, including discussions around hosting important meetings between world leaders in Saudi Arabia.
The summit in Riyadh was initiated at the directive of the Crown Prince, emphasizing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global security and peace. However, risks loom as Prince Mohammed navigates complex diplomatic waters, especially considering ongoing conflicts in the region, differing views on Gaza ownership, and potential economic implications for Saudi Arabia amid fluctuating oil prices.
Despite challenges, Crown Prince Mohammed’s involvement in high-level diplomacy underscores his ambitions on the global stage, as he continues to navigate intricate geopolitical landscapes.
The futuristic city of Neom, with a price tag of $500 billion, stands as a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s ambition and vision for the future. In the wake of the Khashoggi killing, Saudi Arabia found itself isolated on the international stage, with Russia and China stepping in to offer their support and validation to Crown Prince Mohammed, despite ongoing concerns about human rights violations.
Engagements with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Putin provided Prince Mohammed with a diplomatic lifeline, enhancing his standing and signaling a shift in global power dynamics. A pivotal moment came in 2023, when a Chinese-brokered agreement facilitated the restoration of Saudi Arabia’s relations with Iran, demonstrating the kingdom’s ability to navigate complex geopolitical challenges and assert its influence in the region.
Perceived delays in American responses to security threats, such as the 2019 drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities by Iran-backed Houthi rebels, prompted Saudi Arabia to diversify its alliances and seek partnerships with a broader range of international actors. Journalist Mishari al-Dhaidi lauded these efforts as a step towards global dialogue and cooperation, heralding a new era of optimism and collaboration.
Despite criticisms and uncertainties, Prince Mohammed’s strategic maneuvers have yielded tangible results, as evidenced by upcoming visits from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the potential involvement of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The evolving dynamics in the Middle East underscore the evolving role of Saudi Arabia in shaping regional politics and fostering international partnerships.
