Overview
- The Nov. 18 black‑tie state dinner at the White House honored Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman after a day of official engagements.
- President Trump publicly thanked the first lady for planning the dinner, highlighting her operational role after a stretch of limited public appearances.
- During the event, Trump designated Saudi Arabia a major non‑NATO ally, signaling a deepening of security ties.
- Coverage noted Melania Trump’s emerald green Elie Saab gown; some commentators speculated about symbolic intent, a reading reported as unconfirmed.
- The visit drew scrutiny given the CIA’s assessment that the crown prince played a lead role in Jamal Khashoggi’s 2018 killing, while reports also recalled the first lady’s advocacy for the Take It Down Act signed in May.