Mohammed bin Salman to Meet Trump at White House on Nov. 18

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is set to visit the White House on November 18, 2025, for a meeting with President Donald Trump. This visit marks the crown prince’s first trip to Washington during Trump’s second term. Discussions will focus on a potential defense pact as well as military and intelligence sharing between the two nations.

The crown prince, commonly known as MBS, last visited the White House over seven years ago. However, he and Trump met in May 2025 during the president’s four-day journey to the Middle East, which aimed to strengthen economic ties, address the Israel-Gaza conflict, and explore a resolution to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Strategic Discussions Ahead

During the upcoming meeting, officials expect to revisit agreements made during the May visit. Plans for a signing event are also under consideration, although specific details remain uncertain. According to sources familiar with the discussions, both leaders will likely emphasize cooperation on military and intelligence operations, reflecting the growing security partnership between the United States and Saudi Arabia.

The Trump administration recently formalized a defense pact with Qatar, agreeing to treat any armed attack on the Gulf nation as a threat to the United States, thereby pledging military support. Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in establishing a similar agreement, which would enhance its defense capabilities in a volatile region.

Trump has historically praised Prince Mohammed, describing the U.S.-Saudi relationship as “a bedrock of security and prosperity.” The president’s first foreign visit in 2017 was to Saudi Arabia, and the crown prince was the first leader Trump contacted after taking office in January 2025.

The forthcoming meeting is expected to solidify the ties that have characterized U.S.-Saudi relations, particularly in defense collaboration. As the Middle East landscape continues to shift, both leaders are prioritizing strategic partnerships that address regional security threats.

The outcome of the November meeting could have significant implications for the U.S.-Saudi alliance and regional stability, especially in light of ongoing tensions involving Iran and other geopolitical challenges.