Lecture Notes: Mohammed bin Salman - MBS

Introduction

• Mohammed bin Salman, known as MBS, is the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia.
• Accused of various controversial acts: murder of a journalist, war in Yemen, and oppression.
• Holds significant geopolitical influence due to oil reserves and control of Muslim holy sites.
• Key ally in Western arms trade and anti-terrorism efforts.

Background

• MBS's father, King Salman, ascended to the throne in 2015.
• Power traditionally passes not from father to son but across family lines within the House of Saud.
• MBS surprisingly appointed Minister of Defense and Economy at 30.

Youth and Leadership

• Seen as an asset during perilous times for Saudi Arabia.
• Engaged with US diplomats to understand Saudi's internal issues.
• Acknowledged the need for cultural changes like cinema and music.

Rise to Power

• MBS’s early actions were controversial but marked by strategic foresight.
• Launched a war in Yemen against Iranian-backed Houthis.
• Sought American support which was not forthcoming due to changing US policies.

Internal Reforms

• Initiated societal changes, opening cinemas, allowing women to drive, and reducing religious police powers.
• Facing internal and external opposition but maintaining control through strict measures.

Economic Vision

• Launched Vision 2030 to reduce oil dependency.
• Seeks foreign investment and modernization of Saudi infrastructure.
• Held large conferences to attract Western business interest.

Controversies and Challenges

• Accused of repressing opponents and enforcing strict political control.
• Undertook aggressive foreign policy moves, e.g., blockade of Qatar and detention of Lebanese PM.

The Khashoggi Incident

• Journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder in the Saudi consulate in Turkey caused international outrage.
• MBS accused of direct involvement; CIA implicated him.

International Relations

• Maintains relationships with Western powers despite controversies.
• Has leveraged economic and political power to maintain alliances.

Future Implications

• MBS poised to rule for decades after his father.
• Balances modernization with traditional power structures.
• Faces ongoing challenges from regional rivals like Iran and internal dissent.

Conclusion

• MBS's leadership is marked by ambitious reforms and controversial power plays.
• His future influence on Saudi Arabia and global geopolitics remains significant.