The United States has officially designated Saudi Arabia as a "major non-NATO ally," a status that grants the kingdom enhanced military and economic privileges, including access to advanced weaponry and defense cooperation. This announcement was made by President Donald Trump during a formal dinner with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has faced international scrutiny since the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018.

The designation allows Saudi Arabia to benefit from defense trade, security cooperation, and eligibility for military loans, including the purchase of U.S.-made depleted uranium ammunition. This marks a significant moment in U.S.-Saudi relations, especially in light of previous commitments by President Joe Biden to distance the U.S. from the Saudi leadership due to human rights concerns.

In addition to the designation, a Strategic Defence Agreement (SDA) has been signed, which is expected to accelerate arms sales to Saudi Arabia, including the F-35 warplane. The agreement signifies a shift in negotiations, moving from tentative discussions to more definitive terms regarding the acquisition of sophisticated U.S. weaponry. Saudi Arabia is also exploring advanced drone technology, indicating a broader military modernization effort.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has sought to reshape his international image through investments in Western sports and entertainment, a strategy often referred to as "sportswashing." However, public perception in the U.S. remains largely critical, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts in Yemen and the region's complex political landscape.

The evolving U.S.-Saudi relationship reflects a blend of strategic interests and economic considerations, with M.B.S. consolidating power within the Kingdom while facing challenges in Yemen and recalibrating his approach to Iran. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has further complicated Saudi foreign policy, as public sentiment increasingly favors Palestinian rights.

In a related context, the U.S. is also engaged in discussions with Russia regarding a peace plan for Ukraine, which raises concerns about the potential exclusion of Ukraine from negotiations about its future. The U.S. has made several attempts to mediate the conflict, but ongoing military actions, including recent Russian strikes in Ukraine, underscore the challenges of achieving a lasting resolution.

Overall, the renewed partnership between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia highlights the complex interplay of military partnerships, regional stability, and the implications of M.B.S.'s domestic policies, which continue to draw criticism for their authoritarian nature and human rights implications.