Overview
- Trump told Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in a call last month that, with the Gaza war ending, he expects Saudi steps toward ties with Israel, according to U.S. officials.
- U.S. and Saudi negotiators are working to unveil a non‑treaty security pledge during the Nov. 18 White House meeting, modeled on an executive order and reversible by a future administration.
- The package under discussion includes major arms and technology elements, with Bloomberg reporting the administration expects to clear a Saudi purchase of F‑35 jets, which remains unconfirmed.
- Saudi officials maintain that progress with Israel hinges on credible movement toward Palestinian statehood, keeping prospects for a breakthrough uncertain next week.
- The trip is set to feature economic agreements and a Washington investment forum focused on energy and AI, with access to advanced chips and potential civil nuclear cooperation on the agenda.