U.S. and Saudi Arabia working to finalize defense pact before MBS meets Trump
Briefly

U.S. and Saudi Arabia working to finalize defense pact before MBS meets Trump
"It will be the ultimate validation for the 40-year-old Crown Prince, who could soon become king and already sees himself as the leader of the Arab and Muslim world. Behind the scenes: One of the agreements being discussed ahead of the visit would provide Saudi Arabia with a U.S. security guarantee. That pact would fall short of a legally binding defense treaty, which would be nearly impossible to pass through the Senate."
"Sources briefed on the issue said the model will be the same as the pledge Qatar received in September via executive order, meaning any future administration could revoke it. The Saudis also want to move forward with the purchase of a massive weapons package, including dozens of F-35 fighter jets. The Saudi embassy did not respond to requests for comment."
One potential agreement would provide Saudi Arabia with a U.S. security guarantee that would fall short of a legally binding defense treaty and could be revoked by a future administration. Saudi national security and other officials have traveled to Washington to discuss the possible arrangement and a large weapons purchase, including dozens of F-35 fighter jets. Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met with senior U.S. officials to prepare for the crown prince's meeting with Trump. Previous announced agreements from last May have seen limited implementation, leaving Saudi officials disappointed by lack of follow-up.
Read at Axios
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