17 November 2025

Former Middle East Envoy: A Renewed US-Saudi Alliance for a Changing Middle East | Opinion

Jason D. Greenblatt

The upcoming visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) to the White House is more than a diplomatic occasion—it is a pivotal moment for U.S.–Saudi relations and the future of the Middle East.

At a time of global tension and regional uncertainty, this meeting reaffirms an alliance vital to America, to Israel, to our regional partners and to a more stable and prosperous world.

President Donald Trump looks on as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman greets the crowd during the Saudi-U.S. investment forum at the King Abdul Az...Read More

At the heart of this relationship lies a simple truth: The United States and Saudi Arabia need each other. In a region threatened by the Iranian regime’s aggression, terrorism and instability in states like Syria and Lebanon, America’s strength depends on capable, like-minded partners. Saudi Arabia has long been one of the U.S.’ most important allies. A strong U.S.–Saudi defense partnership helps deter hostile actors, protect shipping lanes and secure global energy supplies that sustain the world economy.

Together, the two nations safeguard the Red Sea and Arabian (Persian) Gulf, counter drone and missile attacks from Iran-backed militias and help prevent nuclear proliferation. A formal defense pact—linking U.S. technology and intelligence with Saudi reach and resources—would cement this cooperation for the long-term. It would show that Riyadh is ready to share the burden of regional security and that Washington remains a reliable ally.

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