US-Saudi Relations: Trump's Visit And The Bin Salman Handshake

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Post on May 14, 2025

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US-Saudi Relations: Trump's Controversial Visit and the Bin Salman Handshake

Donald Trump's visit to Saudi Arabia in 2017, marked by a highly publicized handshake with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), remains a pivotal moment in the complex history of US-Saudi relations. The visit, laden with symbolism and significant geopolitical implications, sparked intense debate and continues to shape the narrative surrounding the bilateral relationship. This article delves into the context, consequences, and enduring legacy of Trump's trip and that iconic handshake.

A Show of Unity Amidst Turmoil:

Trump's visit, part of his first international trip as president, aimed to project an image of strengthened US-Saudi ties amidst growing regional instability. The visit came at a time of escalating tensions with Iran and ongoing conflicts in Yemen and Syria. The carefully orchestrated events, including a massive arms deal and the participation of numerous CEOs in a business forum, signaled a clear intention to bolster economic and strategic cooperation. The handshake with MBS, broadcast globally, was presented as a symbol of this renewed partnership.

Beyond the Handshake: The Arms Deal and Geopolitical Strategy:

The centerpiece of Trump's visit was a $110 billion arms deal, the largest in US history. This significant agreement underscored the strategic importance of the Saudi Arabian market for American defense contractors and cemented the US's role as Saudi Arabia's primary arms supplier. However, the deal also ignited controversy, raising concerns about human rights violations in Yemen and the potential for escalating regional conflicts. Critics argued that the arms sale prioritized short-term economic gains over long-term strategic stability and ethical considerations.

The Khashoggi Assassination and its Fallout:

The subsequent assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul in 2018 cast a long shadow over the relationship. While the US government conducted investigations, the lack of substantial consequences for MBS, who US intelligence agencies implicated in the killing, significantly damaged US credibility and fueled criticism of Trump's seemingly lenient approach towards the Saudi leadership. This event fundamentally altered the perception of the handshake, transforming it from a symbol of unity to a representation of a compromised relationship.

A Legacy of Controversy and Shifting Sands:

Trump's visit and the infamous handshake remain highly debated topics. While the administration presented the visit as a success, solidifying strategic alliances and boosting economic ties, critics point to the human rights concerns, the lack of accountability for Khashoggi's murder, and the potential for fueling regional instability. The events of 2017 and beyond have irrevocably altered the trajectory of US-Saudi relations, underscoring the complexities and challenges inherent in navigating a strategic partnership with a country facing significant human rights challenges.

Looking Ahead: Re-evaluating the Relationship:

The Biden administration has adopted a markedly different approach to Saudi Arabia, prioritizing human rights and seeking to recalibrate the relationship. This shift reflects a growing global awareness of the human cost of unchecked authoritarianism and a renewed focus on promoting democratic values. While economic and strategic considerations remain important, the legacy of Trump's visit and the handshake with MBS serves as a stark reminder of the need for a more nuanced and ethically conscious approach to foreign policy. The future of US-Saudi relations will depend on the ability of both countries to address these critical issues and forge a partnership based on mutual respect and shared values.