Saudi Arabia’s Richest Man Prince Alwaleed bin Talal on Trump’s Tariffs, DeepSeek, Israel, and Iran

In a recent interview, Prince Alwaleed bin Talal expressed cautious optimism about the Trump administration’s foreign policy, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian issue and highlighting the alignment between Saudi Arabia and Israel against Iran. He also discussed his investments in media, particularly in Elon Musk’s X, and addressed broader economic issues, advocating for stability in the Middle East amidst complex global energy dynamics.

In a recent interview, Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, one of Saudi Arabia’s wealthiest individuals, expressed cautious optimism regarding the Trump administration’s approach to global issues. He highlighted Trump’s strong foreign policy stance and the potential for positive impacts on international relations, particularly concerning conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Prince Alwaleed emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the longstanding Palestinian issue and the ongoing war in Ukraine, advocating for a diplomatic approach that acknowledges the rights of Palestinians while fostering relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel.

The prince discussed the alignment between Saudi Arabia and Israel, particularly in their mutual opposition to Iran, which he described as a source of chaos in the region. He noted that while there has been progress in Saudi-Israeli relations, the Palestinian statehood issue remains unresolved. He called for effective leadership from the United States to facilitate negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, suggesting that a stable Palestinian state is essential for lasting peace in the region.

Prince Alwaleed also shared his views on the political landscape in the United States, expressing support for Trump’s conservative policies and his stance against what he termed the “woke” movement. He criticized the leftward shift in American politics over the past few years and expressed hope that Trump’s return to power could help restore a more centrist approach. He acknowledged the admiration many in the Arab world have for the United States and its leadership, emphasizing the importance of a strong America for global stability.

On the topic of media and technology, Prince Alwaleed discussed his investments in various companies, including his significant stake in Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter). He expressed confidence in the platform’s potential to become a leading force in media and communication, particularly in the context of free speech. He contrasted this with the struggles of other media outlets that have leaned left, suggesting that X’s model of open expression is gaining traction as an alternative.

Finally, the prince addressed broader economic issues, including the future of energy and the potential for a shift in U.S. relations with Venezuela due to its oil reserves. He acknowledged the complexities of global energy markets and the need for a balanced approach to oil production. Prince Alwaleed concluded by discussing the importance of stability in the Middle East and the role of Saudi Arabia in fostering regional peace, while also recognizing the challenges posed by external influences and internal dynamics within the region.