U.S. Presidential Visits to Saudi Arabia: A History of Memorable Moments
American presidents have a long history of visits to Saudi Arabia, marked by impactful interactions and memorable moments. As President Trump returns to the oil-rich nation, it’s worth revisiting four notable encounters from past visits.
2022: Biden’s Fist Bump
President Biden’s 2022 trip to Jeddah reflected a shift in the U.S.-Saudi relationship. Earlier, he labeled the kingdom a "pariah" over the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, allegedly ordered by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. However, to address soaring oil prices due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Biden opted for diplomacy. His much-publicized fist bump with the prince garnered attention; the Saudi government quickly shared images of the moment on social media. Despite private confrontations about Khashoggi’s death, Biden later admitted the visit failed to yield the expected increase in Saudi oil production.
2017: Trump’s Orb Ceremony
During President Trump’s early visit to Riyadh, he participated in a surreal ceremony involving a glowing orb, flanked by King Salman and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. The moment sparked a viral meme storm, jokingly comparing the scene to fantasy imagery. The orb, intended to symbolize a commitment to combat extremism, attracted both fascination and ridicule.
1974: Nixon’s Plea for Wisdom
In 1974, President Nixon visited Jeddah as part of a regional tour, seeking Saudi support to stabilize oil prices and promote peace in the Middle East. He emphasized the need for "wisdom" alongside oil in his discussions with Saudi leaders.
1945: Roosevelt’s Charitable Gift
President Roosevelt’s unique encounter with King Abdulaziz al-Saud aboard a U.S. warship in Egypt marked the first high-level communication and included a thoughtful gift—a wheelchair for the ailing king.
These historical moments illustrate the complex tapestry of U.S.-Saudi relations, filled with both strategic diplomacy and unexpected spectacles.
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