Trump’s Mohammed bin Salman moment
by S. Rob Sobhani · The Washington TimesOPINION:
Moments of danger, rather than times of calm, reveal the true measure of an alliance in international affairs.
The escalating attacks by Iranian-backed Houthi forces against Saudi Arabia present precisely such a test for the United States.
America has compelling strategic reasons to stand firmly with the Saudis at this critical juncture. The stakes extend far beyond the Middle East. American credibility, global energy security and the stability of the international economy are all on the line.
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President Trump now faces what might be called his “Mohammed bin Salman moment” — an opportunity to demonstrate that the United States remains committed to the crown prince and our other closest partners, and is prepared to defend the foundations of global stability.
For decades, Saudi Arabia has been one of America’s most important strategic partners in the Middle East. The relationship has survived political transitions, regional conflicts, economic fluctuations and geopolitical shocks because it serves the long-term interests of both nations.
Saudi Arabia has consistently worked with Washington on counterterrorism, regional security, intelligence cooperation and energy stability.
Despite some disagreements, the broader partnership has remained remarkably resilient. Crown Prince Mohammed is the guarantor of this resilience.
Today, however, that partnership faces a serious challenge.
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The Houthis, backed and armed by the murderous regime in Tehran, have intensified attacks that threaten not only Saudi territory but also vital energy infrastructure and maritime routes. Observers increasingly warn that attacks on Saudi energy facilities and Red Sea shipping lanes could have profound consequences for global markets.
Recent reporting has noted that Houthi actions threaten critical supply routes and have increased pressure on Riyadh, the world’s leading oil exporter.
This is not merely a regional dispute. Saudi Arabia sits at the heart of the global energy system. When threats emerge against the kingdom’s ability to export energy safely and reliably, the entire world economy feels the consequences. Inflation, higher fuel prices, disrupted supply chains and slower economic growth would be felt from Asia to Europe and across the U.S.
At the center of this challenge stands Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Whatever differences may exist between his government and ours on individual policy matters, one fact is increasingly undeniable: The Saudi crown prince has emerged as a reliable and pragmatic energy partner for the international community.
Under his leadership, Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in maintaining energy market stability while pursuing one of the world’s most visionary economic transformations.
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At a time when many energy-producing nations have become sources of uncertainty, Saudi Arabia has demonstrated a capacity to act as a stabilizing force. This reliability has become even more valuable amid conflicts affecting global trade routes and ongoing concerns about energy security.
First, Mr. Trump should respond accordingly. Allies around the world watch closely when the U.S. responds to challenges facing its partners. If America appears unwilling to support a long-standing ally under sustained attack from an Iranian-backed proxy force, other partners will inevitably question the reliability of U.S. commitments.
Mr. Trump knows that American credibility is one of the nation’s most valuable strategic assets. Once damaged, it is extraordinarily difficult to rebuild. He now has an opportunity to act decisively and strategically.
The U.S. should intensify military and covert actions designed to degrade Houthi capabilities. This does not necessarily require a large-scale military commitment. It does require a focused effort to disrupt missile networks, drone operations, command structures and supply chains linking the Houthis to the Iranian-backed regime.
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Intelligence cooperation, precision operations and enhanced defensive coordination with Saudi Arabia can significantly alter the strategic balance.
Second, Mr. Trump should invite the crown prince to the White House as a visible demonstration of American support. Symbolism matters in international politics. A high-profile meeting would send a clear message not only to Riyadh but also to Tehran and other regional actors: The United States stands behind its allies and is committed to regional stability.
Third, Washington should encourage the American private sector to accelerate investment in Saudi Arabia. The kingdom’s economic transformation under Vision 2030 presents enormous opportunities for American companies in sectors such as artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, infrastructure, healthcare, energy and data centers.
Strategic partnerships are strongest when built on security and prosperity. The U.S. and Saudi Arabia have spent decades creating one of the world’s most consequential bilateral relationships. Allowing an Iranian-backed proxy force to threaten the central hub of global energy exports without a meaningful response would be a strategic mistake with potentially global consequences.
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History often presents leaders with defining moments. For Mr. Trump, supporting Saudi Arabia in its hour of need may prove to be one of them.
• S. Rob Sobhani, Ph.D., is an adjunct professor at Georgetown University.