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By the time he consolidated his power, Prince Mohammed became more and more daring. At 33, he charmed young Saudis and many Westerners by promising to diversify the Saudi economy and weaken the kingdom's religious authorities. He left women driving and concerts and movie theaters, so many novelties for the kingdom.
During a tour of the United States this year, Prince Mohammed was welcomed as a statesman. He met with President Trump; dined with Rupert Murdoch; had his picture taken with Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook, Bill Gates and Tim Cook of Apple; and spent time with the actor known as The Rock.
But many of his actions turned against him.
His military intervention in Yemen has so far only resulted in a stalemate and a humanitarian crisis. His detention of the Prime Minister of Lebanon was ultimately ineffective. And the imprisonment without trial of hundreds of wealthy businessmen, including several of his royal cousins, has angered many investors that he had been wooing.
And now there are the allegations concerning Mr. Khashoggi.
Mrs Wittes, the Brookings specialist, said that if the Saudis "wanted to murder a journalist in foreign territory because it was rather critical, these international partners will be far less likely to send their students, researchers, and experts. in the kingdom ". or to establish long-term partnerships with the kingdom. "
To be considered in the eyes of the world as responsible for such a macabre assassination might already have been enough to disqualify a crown prince from his succession to the Saudi throne. But Prince Mohammed, known as the MBS, seems to have more control than any other leader for decades on the sources of power in the kingdom – the army, the National Guard and the Ministry of the Interior. Interior – as well as the Ministry of Oil.
Many analysts say that there is almost no one left to challenge him, provided he maintains the goodwill of his elderly father.
"No real coalition can mobilize against MBS," said Ulrichsen, a Middle East scholar. "He seems to be safe in his position. And that seems to be the reason we see such actions. "
