The Saudi prince's long road to rehabilitation

沙特王子漫长的康复之路

The Global Story

2025-11-18

26 分钟
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Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman – MBS – will be welcomed at the White House on his first visit to Washington since the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi led to global outrage. MBS has always denied involvement in Khashoggi’s murder. Nevertheless, both he and Saudi Arabia were ostracised after the killing. Tuesday’s meeting between President Trump and Saudi Arabia’s de facto ruler will build on a relationship between the two leaders which has endured the scandal. But can both parties walk away from these strategic talks with what they want? On Trump’s part, some movement towards the Abraham Accords; and for MBS, a chunky defence package. We talk to BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: President Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Brian Snyder/Reuters
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  • This BBC podcast is supported by ads outside the UK.

  • Asia-specific, coming soon with me, Marika Oi.

  • Saudi Arabia's crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman,

  • known almost universally by his initials, MBS, he's visiting Washington on Tuesday.

  • The last time he was there was in 2018.

  • It was a hugely successful trip at the time.

  • And then, just a few months later, This happened.

  • The journalist Jamal Khashoggi is dead.

  • The journalist was murdered.

  • His body was cut into pieces after his death.

  • MBS denies any involvement in Jamal Khashoggi's murder.

  • Nevertheless, both he and Saudi Arabia were ostracized after the killing.

  • But now MBS is back in Washington.

  • And it looks something like a full rehabilitation after seven years.

  • Here in DC,

  • the Saudi flags are hanging on the light posts along Pennsylvania Avenue outside the White House.

  • This is, by all accounts, expected to be an elaborate, symbolic, and highly strategic visit.

  • The Trump administration is throwing a fancy formal dinner, and the mood is likely to be warm.

  • And frankly, why not?

  • Donald Trump and MBS both have something that the other man wants.