Amanpour Inside the Crown Prince
Nov 18, 2025
In this discussion, Bernard Haykel, a Princeton scholar and expert on Saudi politics, shares insights from his numerous interviews with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He reveals MBS's strategic alliance goals with the U.S. and the implications of Saudi normalization with Israel. Juan Gonzalez, a former U.S. national security official, analyzes rising tensions with Venezuela and the complexities of U.S. military pressure. Lastly, Geeta Gandbhir highlights issues around policing and systemic racism in her documentary about Ajika Owens, emphasizing the flaws of Stand Your Ground laws.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Saudi Bid For Long-Term Strategic Alliance
- Bernard Haykel argues Mohammed bin Salman seeks a UK/France-level strategic alliance with the U.S. to secure Saudi Arabia.
- He wants a mutual defense pact, AI cooperation, and long-term security guarantees against Iran and regional threats.
Palestinian State As Precondition For Normalization
- Haykel says MBS will only normalize with Israel if Israel makes meaningful gestures toward a Palestinian state.
- He sees Palestinian self-determination as essential to regional stability and to reduce radicalization.
Saudi Security Fears Keep Iran Central
- Saudis view Iran as weakened but still a significant threat with missile and drone capabilities.
- They want stronger U.S. pressure on Israel to endorse a roadmap toward a Palestinian state.
