The Times of Israel Daily Briefing Day 775 - MBS meeting with Trump elevates Saudi Arabia's ally status
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Nov 19, 2025 
Jacob Magid, U.S. bureau chief for The Times of Israel, provides insights on the significant implications of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's White House visit. He discusses how Trump's policies elevate Saudi Arabia's status in U.S. foreign relations, impacting Israel's hopes for normalization. The UN Security Council's vote on Gaza redevelopment and the challenges of mobilizing an International Stabilization Force are also examined. Additionally, Magid interviews Fadwa Barghouti on her husband's potential release, emphasizing its significance for Palestinian unity and peace efforts.
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US Elevates Saudi Status For Strategic Gain
- The U.S. elevated Saudi Arabia to major non-NATO ally status to secure defense guarantees and investment commitments.
- Jacob Magid reports Trump valued Saudi investment and defense cooperation over conditioning benefits on normalization with Israel.
Investment Promises Trump Arms And Diplomacy
- Saudi officials touted up to $1 trillion in potential investment during the visit, a figure that influenced U.S. decisions.
- Magid says the investment promise likely outweighed Israeli hopes to condition arms sales on normalization.
F-35 Sales Signal Shift In Regional Balance
- Trump signaled willingness to sell F-35s to Saudi Arabia, despite Israeli concerns about eroding Israel's qualitative military edge.
- Magid notes Congress and technical safeguards may slow delivery, but the political decision favors the sale.