In a significant move to bolster international military partnerships, President Donald Trump formally elevated the United States' relationship with Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.
A New Strategic Designation
During an official dinner at the White House, President Trump announced that Saudi Arabia would be designated as a "major, non-NATO ally." The declaration came during an event honouring Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is visiting Washington. The dinner took place in the prestigious East Room of the White House on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.
"We're taking our military cooperation to even greater heights by formally designating Saudi Arabia as a major, non-NATO ally, which is something that is very important to them," President Trump stated, highlighting the mutual importance of this upgraded partnership.
Deepening Military Cooperation
This new status signifies a substantial deepening of the defence and strategic relationship between the two nations. The designation of major non-NATO ally provides Saudi Arabia with privileged access to American military technology and equipment, along with enhanced cooperation in areas such as defence research and joint training exercises.
The move is seen as a strategic step to counter regional threats and solidify a key alliance in the Middle East. This formal recognition underscores the long-standing security partnership and signals a continued commitment to mutual defence interests.
Implications for Global Politics
The elevation of Saudi Arabia's status is poised to have considerable implications for the balance of power in the Middle East and for US foreign policy objectives. It reinforces the strategic axis between Washington and Riyadh at a time of complex geopolitical challenges.
This decision, announced during the Crown Prince's high-profile visit, is expected to further intertwine the security and economic interests of both countries for years to come, marking a pivotal moment in international diplomacy.
