Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Bin Abdulaziz is being treated for lung inflammation with antibiotics at Al Salam Palace in Jeddah, according to the state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA). Earlier on Sunday, SPA reported that the 88-year-old king had a high fever and joint pain, prompting medical tests at the Royal Clinics. This follows his hospital admission and release in April after a routine checkup.
King Salman has led Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest oil exporter, since 2015, but his son, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), manages most daily affairs.
Crown Prince Mohammed was scheduled to make a rare trip to Japan this week to meet Prime Minister Fumio Kishida from May 20 to May 23, according to the Japanese government. On Sunday, MBS met with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan to discuss the conflict in Gaza and the “nearly final version” of strategic agreements between Saudi Arabia and the US, as reported by SPA.
These discussions are part of broader efforts to establish a historic pact that would provide Saudi Arabia with security guarantees and potentially pave the way for diplomatic ties with Israel, according to Bloomberg. This agreement would significantly impact the strategic relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States and influence Middle Eastern geopolitics.
In addition to his meeting with US officials, Crown Prince Mohammed recently engaged with regional leaders, including Jordan’s King Abdullah II, during the 33rd Arab Summit in Bahrain. These interactions underscore MBS’s active role in regional diplomacy and efforts to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s influence in the Middle East.
The health of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed’s diplomatic activities are crucial for Saudi Arabia. As King Salman receives medical care, MBS continues to ensure leadership stability and the execution of Saudi Arabia’s strategic policies, navigating complex regional and international relations.
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