Source: Christian Science Monitor
by staff
“During a visit to the United States this week, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman achieved much of what he sought, mainly access to advanced American fighter jets and microchips and ‘major ally’ status with the U.S. He also received a reputational redemption of sorts, when President Donald Trump dismissed questions about the prince’s suspected involvement in the murder of a Saudi journalist. And thanks to diplomacy by Saudi Arabia, along with Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, Mr. Trump also got something he wanted (and needed): approval from the U.N. Security Council for his Gaza peace plan. Soft-power persuasion by these Arab states helped avert potential vetoes by China and Russia. It underscored the value of keeping doors open to even potential foes – and to the institutions that maintain multilateral relationships. The Gulf States are playing a growing role in many global standoffs and bring unique perspectives to international mediation.” (11/19/25)
https://www.csmonitor.com/Commentary/the-monitors-view/2025/1119/Lessons-in-multilateral-mediation