Trump granted the status of a major non-NATO ally to another country.

US President Donald Trump declared Riyadh a “major non-NATO ally” — a decision that instantly elevated Saudi-American relations to a new level. This became known immediately after his dinner with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, where fundamental defense and security issues were discussed.

A Political Gesture That Changes the Rules

Trump’s statement includes the loudest promise of recent years: to transfer F-35 fighters to Saudi Arabia. Until now, these aircraft were a technological privilege of Israel — and now, for the first time, another country in the region gains access to such power.

Washington sends a signal: Riyadh enters a new circle of trust. Trump emphasizes that this decision “serves the interests of peace” and strengthens the cooperation architecture, benefiting both sides.

A Night of Diplomacy: What Exactly Was Agreed Over Dinner

During the personal meeting, Trump and bin Salman confirmed a strategic defense agreement that simplifies arms supplies, creates a more flexible system of interaction between the armies, and paves the way for new security projects.

For Washington — it’s an enhancement of influence in the region.
For Saudi Arabia — an opportunity for a technological leap, especially in the conditions of instability in the Middle East.

A Historical Background That Cannot Be Ignored

Saudi Arabia has always been a key partner of the US, but the path was not easy.
There was tension over human rights, disagreements over oil, and cooling periods during administration changes.

From the very beginning of his presidency, Trump built a different approach: dialogue, personal meetings, joint projects, and an open bet on strengthening the bilateral alliance. His first international visit — precisely to Riyadh — was already a symbol of this pivot.

What the Status of “Major Non-NATO Ally” Means

Today, this list includes 19 countries, and each of them receives:

– access to expanded military cooperation
– more flexible conditions for arms purchases
– inclusion in certain security programs

But it’s important to understand: this status does not provide defense guarantees. Taiwan, for example, is considered a key US partner but is not officially on this list.

Saudi Arabia receives a tool, but not a shield. And yet — it’s a huge political advance.

Geopolitical Effect

For the region, Trump’s decision means a new redistribution of influence.
For the US — an opportunity to strengthen the anti-Iranian security architecture.
For Saudi Arabia — access to the technological elite of armaments.

In fact, Washington makes it clear: the strategic partnership with Riyadh is not a temporary deal but a long-term project.

NAnews — News of Israel | Nikk.Agency

In Conclusion

Trump’s statement is not just a diplomatic formula. It is a new level of Saudi Arabia’s position in the world, a new format of US Middle Eastern policy, and a new balance that will influence the region’s security in the coming years.