Decoding Mohammed bin Salman: A Critical Exploration

Unraveling an Enigma

Scrutinizing Mohammed bin Salman, the much-debated Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, was hardly an easy task for a group of money-focused investigative journalists. Through diligent research, they aimed to unravel the enigma surrounding him and provide insights into his ascent to power, personality, and motivations.

Digging Beyond the Obvious

This mission required them to break free from their preconceived notions about Saudi Arabia and its prince, sifting through intricate financial trails. With the groundwork laid in London and New York, they created an environment conducive for their anonymous sources to open up.

From Darkness to Light

The endeavor paved the way for broader understanding of the intertwined narrative of Mohammed bin Salman's leadership and business skills. Spanning over years, their meticulous reporting combined interviews, financial and governmental records to illuminate the enigma for a curious world.

Key Players in Saudi Arabian Power Structure

Understanding The Power Figures

This narrative offers a glimpse into the labyrinthine power dynamics of Saudi Arabia by focusing on the key figures. From the pillars of the ruling Al Saud family, including King Salman and his sons, to the influential businessmen and regional figures, the complexity of Saudi Arabian politics unravels. Even mentions of US government figures having ties with Saudi Arabia add another layer to understanding these dynamics.

The Power Lay Within The Palace

Truly understanding the powerplay in Saudi Arabia would be incomplete without the mention of the Palace. Names like Khalid al-Tuwaijri and Mohammed al-Tobaishi are associated with significant roles in the royal court, offering insight into the court's structure and influence in political affairs.

Voices That Challenged The Power

The narrative doesn't steer clear of controversy either. Bold critics of the Saudi government, including Jamal Khashoggi and Loujain al-Hathloul, make their presence known. These figures immortalize the constant tug between authority and rebellion within the kingdom’s sphere, which is an integral part of the Saudi Arabian power structure.

A Shocking Turn in Saudi Arabia's Power Hierarchy

The Unexpected Arrest

In November 2017, an urgent call brought Prince Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, a Saudi business tycoon known for his fabulous wealth, to a meeting with his nephew, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. What unfolded next was a hard reality check for Alwaleed, when he discovered that the Ritz-Carlton hotel, his meeting venue, had been transformed into a temporary prison.

A Power Play Unfolds

This unforeseen call and the subsequent events were a part of larger changes sweeping Saudi Arabia under the leadership of King Salman’s son, Mohammed bin Salman. Watching the likes of his powerful uncle apprehended under the guise of an anti-corruption campaign, it dawned on the world that Mohammed was consolidating power and positioning himself as one of the most influential figures in the global political arena.

The Ripple Effect on Saudi Society

The sweeping arrest of businessmen, royal family members, and officials during this crackdown marked a significant shift in Saudi Arabia's political and business landscape. The move sent shock waves around the world, especially given the rich and influential background of the detainees. This was a clear indication of Mohammed's ambitious plans to disrupt the status quo and assert his authority.

A Duplicitious Ploy

The arrest operation appeared as a purge of corruption, with the goal to recover billions of dollars. However, the timing shortly after a high-profile business conference where Saudi openly welcomed global business, raised eyebrows. The crackdown spoke volumes about Mohammed's love for ostentation, his ruthless streak, and his daring initiative to consolidate power.

The Extreme Fallout

Back at the Ritz, the detainees were subjected to interrogations, isolation, and even alleged physical abuse. This notorious episode underscored the dramatic measures that were reshaping Saudi Arabia under Mohammed's rule. Thus, the Ritz arrests will forever symbolize the audacious power consolidation of a young prince ready to flout established norms to achieve his aims.

Stirrings of a Royal Upheaval

Power Play in the Palace

Once a realm of peaceful traditions and uneventful transfers of power, the heartbeat of Saudi Arabia quickened as the reign of King Abdullah was drawing to a close in December 2014. The monarchy’s stability and the fate of the nation hung in the balance, propelled by both the modernization fueled by seeping oil wealth and the unwavering hold of the rigid, conservative Wahhabism.

Tailoring a New Era

Rumblings of unease echoed throughout the kingdom, particularly among the ruler’s sons and a significant non-royal, Tuwaijri. Amid the trove of upheaval and suspicion, Crown Prince Salman loomed as a beacon of stability and diversity. With his adaptation to changing tides and penchant for incorporating varied views, Salman rose higher in the stature.

From Intrigue to Inheritance

Power games took shape with rumors of Salman’s dementia pinched into the palace context by Tuwaijri. Yet, the resilient Salman preservered. After the demise of the aged King Abdullah, the reins of power shifted, adding a new Summary to the Saudi succession sequence – with Muqrin emerging as the Crown Prince and Mohammed bin Nayef as the deputy. Outside the immediate line of succession, however, was the reform-driven Mohammed bin Salman, silently waiting his turn.

Stepping into tomorrow

Though Saudi Arabia was notorious for its slow pace of change, this royal shuffling signaled an imminent evolution. A time of rejuvenation was on the horizon, unbeknownst to most, with massive upheavals set to shake the very core of the age-old kingdom.

The Ambitious Rise of Mohammed bin Salman

The Unanticipated Power Play

Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) left the world at a standstill by commanding unprecedented air strikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen. Launching Saudi Arabia to the frontline, both the American and Saudi militia were caught completely off-guard by this strategic initiative.

Facing Threats and Taking Lead

Iran’s proxy warriors, the Houthi insurgents, are considered a significant threat to Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty. Actively stepping up, MBS resolved to prevent any further advancement by these rebel forces.

Operational Shortcomings

Despite their initial high spirit, the Saudi military’s aerial mission in Yemen, dubbed Operation Decisive Storm, crumbled due to skill shortages and poor team coordination, leading to severe civilian losses.

Fueling Ambition: A Fight for Inheritance

MBS's formidable drive and tenacity stem from an urgent need to safeguard his family's wealth and secure his lineage's future, should they ever lose their grip on power.

A Daring Approach to Wealth Accumulation

Known for his audacious tactics, MBS built his wealth by investing in the stock market, launching numerous businesses, and nurturing international relations, thereby expanding his influence considerably.

Resistance in the Path of Reformation

In his pursuit to diversify the economy and bring about a revolution, MBS encountered opposition from traditionalists who were reluctant to embrace such radical changes.

A Measure of Public Perception

In an effort to bolster the country's image, MBS employed international polling agencies to understand the world's perception of Saudi Arabia and devised action plans to address any negative viewpoints.

A Shift in the Power Equation

MBS's swift rise to power stirred concerns among the royal family members, as they feared the onset of a new era heavily influenced by the Salman family.

Mohammed Bin Salman's Maldivian Escapade

Prince's Secretive Extravaganza

Imagine the glittering scene; Saudi Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, in the midst of the Maldivian paradise, hosting a grand party to celebrate his new status in 2015. The Velaa Private Island resort played host to this spectacle, filled with around 150 models flown in for entertainment. His aim? To redefine his public persona as a reformer and modernizer, as opposed to the stereotypical Saudi Prince image.

Behind the Curtain of Opulence

Nevertheless, it wasn't just another party; it was a well-calculated step taken by Mohammed to construct a discernible distance from the extravagant Saudi royal life. Yet it came at a cost. Each employee of the resort received a bonus of $5,000. Pretty generous, right? Little did they know, this secretive event was just about to stir up a controversy.

Caught in the Eye of Storm

As you'd imagine in such situations, news of the party got out, raising eyebrows and drawing criticism. But there's more. Apart from the Maldivian celebration, Mohammed splashed his cash on other opulent acquisitions, such as a gigantic 439-foot yacht, the Serene, and a magnificent château in France. Now, this starts to paint a slightly different picture of the reformer, doesn't it?

Mecca Tragedy: A Power Play Catalyst

Catastrophe Spurs Change

When an accident in Mecca in 2015 led to fatalities and casualties, it spotlighted the Saudi Binladin Group, tasked with the Great Mosque's refurbishment. Instead of only seeing it as a catastrophe, for Mohammed bin Salman it became a chance to seize control and instigate economic reform.

Reluctance to Modernize

However, pushing innovation wasn't smooth-sailing. Companies like the Binladin Group and Saudi Oger Ltd. upheld tradition, resisting the transformation this royal sought. Despite this, Mohammed remained determined in his vision to invigorate the nation's economy and separate ownership from management.

A Revenue Revelation and Struggles

Mecca and Medina, the holy cities, contribute heavily to Saudi Arabia's income. But managing them improperly meant the government had to shell out nearly $10bn yearly for their upkeep. The Mecca incident signaled an urgent need for intervention and reforms, enabling Mohammed to take charge, particularly over the problematic Binladin Group and Saudi Oger Ltd.

A Turning Point for Aramco - An In-Depth Analysis

Decisions That Shook Aramco

In a move that sent ripples across Aramco in January 2016, Mohammed bin Salman revealed his intentions to bring the company onto the public stage. This meant selling part of Aramco to the public, a proposition that left many employees astounded, considering it was far from anything they'd envisaged for their company.

A Glimpse into Aramco's Troubles

The unveiling of Aramco's questionable workplaces practices and lack of transparency shook investor confidence. Aramco, it seemed, lived in its own universe, uncaring of international accounting standards. In addition to this, favoritism dictated their pay structures, resulting in important positions being handed over to Saudis, qualifications notwithstanding.

Operational Hazards and Extravagance

While their disregard for basic safety measures created a risky atmosphere leading to tragic accidents, Aramco, in pursuit of non-business-related endeavors, constructed elaborate structures like sports cities and camel beauty pageant complexes, further alienating potential investors.

The Bin Salman Approach

Despite the on-going issues, bin Salman brought on board McKinsey and other consultants in search of an economic revamp plan for Saudi Arabia. However, doubts surfaced regarding the validity of the consultant's advice due to their own conflicting interests.

Moving towards A New Future

Bin Salman's tour de force, a visit to Silicon Valley, was his attempt at seeking investments and partnerships to bolster his economic transformation plan. But the skepticism from venture capitalists stemmed from a reluctance to accept Saudi money and concerns about the prince's involvement. Nonetheless, progress was inked in the form of a promising Japanese investor ready to step out of the traditional Silicon Valley loop and infuse large investments rapidly.

The Captivating Tailspin of Prince Sultan's Fall

Unsettling Inconsistencies

The mysterious persona of Captain Saud, an incongruous pilot, invariably kindled suspicions. His inexplicable behaviors, from an inability to indulge in basic pilot-oriented conversations to commanding a dubiously large crew presented red flags. A missing standard element, female flight attendants, coupled with his unusual obsession with timepieces, only served to complicate the puzzle.

Prince Sultan's Misguided Trust

Drawing in Saudi Prince, Sultan bin Turki II, into his grand scheme, Captain Saud's intentions gradually unfolded. Despite early warnings from the prince’s security detail about potential entrapment, Sultan chose to risk a journey to Riyadh alongside Captain Saud. This, due to Sultan's past confrontations with the royal family, ironically foreshadowed his startling abduction and subsequent deterioration in health.

Road to Legal Repercussions

Escaping his health crisis, Sultan resumed his luxurious lifestyle with fervor. Unable to let bygones be bygones, he embarked on a legal crusade against his own family for the alleged abduction. This risky game of letters and lawsuits, however, led to interruptions in his royal financial provisions, pushing him to penury and forcing him to seek monetary aid from Mohammed bin Salman.

A Surprising Turn of Events

With his pleas for financial rescue unanswered, Sultan turned to the lawsuit, anonymously criticizing the royal family, in a desperate bid for payment or peace. This audacious endeavor, shockingly, resulted in an unexpected windfall of $2 million and an invite to Cairo. Baffling his aides, Sultan's decision to accept the offer marked a crucial turning point in the saga.

A Terrifying Epilogue

The en route revelation of the flight's actual destination, Saudi Arabia, sparked pandemonium on board. Sultan was seized and his team sequestered in a hotel, later revealed to be a palace prison. Handling their release was none other than Captain Saud, now disclosed as a Royal Court member. His final act was forcing a nondisclosure agreement and a pay-off, effectively silencing Sultan's beleaguered entourage before sending them home.

Drawing Power from Powerful Connections

Navigating High-Stakes Power Networks

Former Deutsche Bank employee, Nizar al-Bassam, leveraged his talent for relationship-building in high-power arenas. After two years of effort, he managed to connect with Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia who aimed to strengthen the country's Public Investment Fund (PIF). Nizar, who was originally from Saudi Arabia, but had culturally adapted to the US, saw an immense opportunity to make a mark in this endeavor.

Pitching Big, Winning Bigger

Nizar and his circle proposed a $20 billion fund to Qatar that was ultimately planned for $100 billion. Interestingly, Mohammed bin Salman pledged $40 billion to this venture. The idea was that the fund would fuel tech start-ups and align with Mohammed's ambitious Vision 2030. The vision embodied Saudi Arabia's transformation into a more technologically advanced, sustainable, and modern country.

Realizing Vision 2030 with NEOM

Mohammed bin Salman presented the idea of NEOM - a futuristic, eco-friendly city - to Masayoshi Son, founder of SoftBank. With Masayoshi as a founding advisor and SoftBank as a partner, the project took off. Despite Mohammed's grandiose and sometimes unfeasible ideas, NEOM became a reality. His unwavering resolve and financial support from Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi converted skeptics into believers.

Prioritizing Political Alliances

Apart from engaging in game-changing financial speculations, Mohammed bin Salman also expressed concerns about the war in Yemen. In his pursuit to solidify US support, he leaned towards Donald Trump rather than Hillary Clinton, particularly due to Trump's stance on the Iran nuclear deal and dismissal of human rights issues. When Mohammed's cousin Salman seemed to favor the Democrats, Mohammed was quick to voice his displeasure, revealing his key focus on strategic alliances during complex political times.

Scheming Citadels of Power

Furtive Conclave Over The Persian Problem

Hidden within the towering walls of Trump Tower, a clandestine rendezvous took place. A meeting scripted by UAE crown prince Mohammed bin Zayed (MBZ) and high-ranking Trump administration members; Steve Bannon, Jared Kushner, and Michael Flynn. Their focal point? The ominous specter of Iran, both nations observing with trepidation the spread of Persian influence.

MBZ, in particular, found an ally in Bannon, their shared disquiet about Iran facilitating a mutual understanding.

Ties Woven in the Desert Sands

Underneath, however, lies a complex tapestry of geopolitics and lasting traditions. MBZ sought to boost the status of Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia's crown prince, in hopes of strengthening their alliance. But the affinities between UAE and Saudi Arabia diffuse through a labyrinth of historical, cultural, and religious intricacies, casting a perplexing shadow on their bonds.

Nevertheless, MBZ’s endeavours to build bridges, particularly with the US, stands apart in the Gulf milieu, a testament to his strategic prowess and political acumen.

A Dip in the Policy Pool

Despite all the chess-like maneuvers in the geopolitical arena, the narrative didn’t shy away from illustrating the disarray within the Trump administration during the planning of the President’s visit to Saudi Arabia. The lack of clarity was palpable: When asked about the list of business contracts to be signed, Kushner shrugged it off, leaving the responsibility to a volunteer.

While this incident defied conventional diplomatic norms, it underscored not only the stark contrast between US and Saudi delegations but also the nature of contemporary geopolitics, as represented in this engaging narrative.

A Strategic Visit: Trump and Saudi Arabia

Historical Meeting in Saudi Arabia

President Trump's first foreign trip in 2017 was to Saudi Arabia, led by King Salman. Trump's warm welcome was an orchestrated attempt by Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) to revitalise the US-Saudi relationship, reinforcing his own standing in the kingdom.

MBS had earlier secured his father's throne amongst internal family competition, strategically building a considerable fortune. This historical visit offered MBS an opportunity to gain legitimacy and demonstrate his leadership prowess.

Political Deals and Showmanship

The visit comprised of signing preliminary deals, an antiterror center tour and a summit of Islamic leaders. Notably, this served as an important stage for MBS to showcase his vision and interpretation of Saudi history, while aligning with US officials.

MBS skillfully directed a series of business announcements and maneuvers, including ostensibly inflated deals, aimed at solidifying ties with US businessmen and painting a powerful image of his kingdom.

Implication of Trump's Visit

The high stakes visit had far reaching consequences. From Trump's provocative speech at an Islamic leaders’ summit, to issues surrounding Qatar and the Muslim Brotherhood being tackled, it was a defining trip.

In addition, business advancements were made, such as Ari Emanuel's firm securing a staggering deal with the kingdom. This visit was a chance for MBS to cement his leadership and enhance Saudi Arabia's standing on the global stage.

Digital Warfare and Geopolitical Tensions

Unleashing Cyber Warfare

In the midst of 2017, a shocking revelation sent tremors through the corridors of power in Qatar. Faux statements, full of praise for Iran and displaying strains with the US and Israel, popped up on the Qatar News Agency website, ruffling feathers across the Gulf. The culprits? None other than a group of Russian cyber mercenaries hired to infiltrate and manipulate Qatar's governmental systems, surreptitiously planting these incendiary proclamations.

The Inevitable Blockade

The fallout was severe and immediate. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and their allies enforced a sweeping blockade on Qatar, cutting any diplomatic and economic connections. Despite the underlying tensions simmering for years, the immediate catalysts for the blockade were Qatar's support for the Muslim Brotherhood, its idiosyncratic foreign policy, and its ownership of influential media like Al Jazeera television.

Wheel of Fortune Turns

Fate, it seems, had a twist in store. The blockade sparked off an acerbic cyber conflict between Qatar and its Gulf neighbours involving hacking incidents, data leaks, and the deployment of surveillance tech. Counterintuitively, this pressure-cooker scenario pushed Qatar into developing a closer allegiance with Iran and Turkey, a move that essentially curtailed the original intentions of Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

A New Reign: Shuffling Saudi Succession

The Unexpected Power Shift

In an unforeseen turn of events in 2017, Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) dethroned his cousin, Mohammed bin Nayef (MBN), marking his unplanned ascent as the heir to the Saudi throne. MBN, cherished by the United States as an ally in counterterrorism, was sidelined - thanks to growing concerns about his health, perceived addiction to painkillers, and rumors about his private life.

MBN's Declining Influence

With MBS gaining predominance, MBN felt his influence waning. Known for nurturing solid relationships with US officials, MBN was a pivotal character in counterterrorism efforts. Yet, the rumors marring his reputation coupled with the health concerns left him in an unenviable position, leading to his ultimate removal from the line of succession.

MBS's Reins of Control

MBS swiftly began gathering methods of control. His rapid ascendance denoted a shift in leadership paradigm and succession planning. Simultaneously, the Allegiance Council, responsible nominally for picking the king and crown prince, was taken over by less consensus-minded monarchs. The pressure from MBS's loyal followers left MBN hobbled, eliminating any leverage he could've exercised.

A Dramatic Exit

The sudden ousting of MBN left US officials startled, simultaneously highlighting the ruthless effectiveness of MBS's strategy. The bond between MBN and MBS was incomparable in the annals of modern Saudi Arabia's history, given their status as half-brothers. With MBN's exit, the traditional succession system – famed for fostering consensus and stability – was disrupted by MBS's power consolidation.

Dissent and Resistance Under Saudi Regime

Confronting the Power Structure

Journalist Jamal Khashoggi was often at odds with the Saudi Arabian government, particularly with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. His vocal criticisms often centered on the lack of civil and political freedoms within the nation. Notably, Khashoggi was unafraid to call out the government's touchy response to dissent, with particular focus on the arrests targeted at religious leaders and other outspoken critics.

The Undying Spirit of Resistance

Even when faced with an increasing pressure to keep quiet and a ban on his ability to write or travel, Khashoggi chose resilience over surrender. His resistance continued as he persisted in questioning and denouncing the government's methods of reform, which he believed unfairly infringed upon individual freedoms.

Political Machinations and Social Media

Mohammed bin Salman, in a bid to contain and smother the emerging negativity against his actions, leaned considerably onto his Twitter legion of loyal followers and automated bots. The key strategy was simple – increase the spread of positive news and suppress the echoes of negative ones.

Murder as a Silencing Tool

Unfortunately, Khashoggi's stalwart stand against oppression came at a heavy price – his life. He was brutally murdered at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, a chilling indication of the lengths the government would go to in order to silence dissent.

Saudi Arabia's Transformational Economy Showcase

Saudi Arabia's Ambitious Showcase

The 'Davos in the Desert' event, held in Saudi Arabia in 2017, was an exposition of the economic reformation strategies being pursued by Mohammed bin Salman. The gathering was teeming with high-profile individuals like Andrew Ross Sorkin, Stephen Schwarzman, Tony Blair, among others, all vying for a piece of Saudi Arabia's promising new future.

Unexpected Highlights and Attention

One of the most unusual highlights was the citizenship granted to Sophia the robot, pulling significant attention towards the event. Furthermore, the positive press exposure this evoked allowed the nation to project a refreshed image, eradicating outdated stereotypes.

The Quest For Foreign Investment

The underlying objective of this event was to entice foreign investment and perceptions were largely positive. Attendees seemed eager to secure investments, but there were also hurdles. The Saudi authorities faced the daunting challenge of convincing potential investors about the viability of their ambitious projects, such as the Aramco IPO.

A New Dawn for Saudi Arabia

Mohammed presented his blueprint for a more liberal and open Saudi Arabia, triggering optimistic responses. Concurrently, Hollywood agent Ari Emanuel reportedly inked a $400 million investment deal amid the event, further solidifying Saudi Arabia's reputation as a burgeoning global influence.

The Pivotal Power Play in Saudi Arabia

Riyadh's Shocking Night of Arrests

In an eventful operation led on November 4, 2017, Saudi Arabian elites and powerhouses found themselves detained at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Riyadh. The orchestrator? Mohammed bin Salman. His motive behind this drastic maneuver stemmed from a desire to eliminate corruption and successfully dissolve any threats to his own sovereignty.

These high-profile arrests had profound ripple effects, destabilizing not only the national, but also the global business milieu, coming as they did on the heels of the 'Davos in the Desert' conference, attended by several global leaders.

The Notable Names & the Charges

Among the detainees was Turki bin Abdullah, a progeny of the royal lineage, charged with corruption and conspiracy against King Salman and Mohammed. Bahrain's prominent businessmen also found themselves collared under similar allegations.

The detainees were given an offer to facilitate their release through settlements, without having to admit their guilt. This, however, didn't take away from the thorough grilling and investigation into their financial assets and activities.

The Ripple Effects on Power Dynamics

Saudi Arabia and the world had its eyes riveted to this unprecedented anti-corruption drive. Opinions differed, with some interpreting the move as a much-needed cleansing of corruption, while others viewed it as a display of aggressive power consolidation.

No matter the reaction, the outcome was clear – Mohammed successfully appointed new ministers and heads of institutions, securing his reign even further.

Tangled Webs: Unraveling the Macron, Salman, and Hariri Triad

Macron's Saudi Diplomacy

Emmanuel Macron, the commanding French President, flew the diplomatic mile to Riyadh, seeking a not-so-simple rendezvous with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Their agenda was clear, yet distinctly complex – to pacify a burgeoning geopolitical crisis. Surprisingly, this crisis wasn't just about nations, but deeply interwoven personal and political interests.

Crackdown at The Ritz

The Saudi royal family's sudden crackdown on corruption swiftly took a sharp turn, causing shock waves across global political circles. The epicenter being Lebanon's Prime Minister, Saad Hariri, forcefully pushed to resign and held captive by the Crown Prince, sparked off a debacle that destabilized Lebanon's delicate peace.

The Royal-Sunni Relationship

The Hariri family's bond with the Saudi royals runs deep and tangled, veined with layers of business and political interests. The germination of this relationship traces back to Rafic Hariri, Saad's father. Capitalizing on Saudi Arabia's oil-fueled building boom in the 1960s, Rafic led his company, Saudi Oger, to major prominence in the construction sector.

The Power and Politics

Leveraging his solid rapport with incumbent powers like King Fahd and Crown Prince Abdullah, Rafic found himself not just a trusted mediator in regional conflicts but ascending the rungs of influence and power. Saad inherited his father's legacy, but the sails were not always smooth for him. Clashes over financial issues, including the Saudi government's non-payment to Saudi Oger, stained relations between Saad and Mohammed bin Salman.

The Symbol of Corruption

Moreover, the Crown Prince eyed the Hariri family as the embodiment of corruption and excessiveness in his quest for economic reform. His target was to eradicate corruption in Saudi Arabia, a goal that led Saad into political captivity. Yet, his efforts misfired as Saad's power and Hezbollah's influence in Lebanon remained unbroken.

The Aftermath

The aftermath included an awkward, televised interview with Saad, who seemed visibly under stress, fuelling coercion rumors. The unsettling interview drew the world's eyes to Lebanon's President's accusations of Saudi Arabia holding Saad Hariri hostage. Clearly, the political maneuvering in this saga isn't over but continues to cast long shadows over the global political landscape.

Mundi Masterpiece: An Unforeseen Billion Dollar Bid

The High Risk Auction

The art world was captivated when Christie's in New York decided to auction a potential da Vinci classic, the Salvator Mundi. A depiction of Jesus Christ holding a transparent orb, the artwork was expected to excite masses and boost tourism to its new museum home.

Billion-Dollar Resolve

In an unprecedented act, young Saudi, Badr bin Farhan Al Saud, put in a remarkably high bid for the painting. His pledge started at a rapid-fire transfer of $100 million, followed by a clear intention of being willing to invest a whopping $1 billion to secure the masterpiece. This unexpected action underscored the extent of his desire and financial capability.

Clever Sales Strategy

Christie's used an innovative tactic to attract significant bidders, even involving nation-states. Under the clever stewardship of Loïc Gouzer, an eye-catching video, christened 'The Last Da Vinci,' was released to engage the public. This unique advertising move aimed to reel in numerous high-value bids.

Art Amidst Challenges

The plan was to unveil the Salvator Mundi within a brand new museum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, notwithstanding the potential objections from conservative Islamic communities to its subject matter. This strategy of intermixing art forms was part of Mohammed bin Salman's larger plan to bring a cultural reviva to the previously desolate area of al-Ula. Clearly, the auction was about more than art; it was a shift towards greater openness and cultural diversity.

Mohammed's Struggles and Triumphs

Prince Tastes Freedom

Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, embraced a new sense of independence in Beverly Hills in April 2018, walking incognito and oozing the metro lifestyle minus the baggage of his royal duties.

Growing Influence Amid Criticism

As his influence swelled, Mohammed faced increasing censure, panoptic surveillance, and backlash, not only from his family but also international onlookers.

A Challenge to Attract Investments

Even amid his dogged attempts to pull American companies to Saudi Arabia, concerns about the nation's constrictive laws and human rights abuses became a hurdle. His dialogues with influential icons like Jeff Bezos and Tim Cook mirrored his struggle, as they misunderstood his intentions.

Pushing For Reforms Under Duress

Mohammed's continued push for social amendments, including squashing the driving ban for women, wasn't without resistance, as he bore down on activists criticizing the government.

The Unveiling of Khashoggi's Tragic End

The Silent Critic's Unanticipated End

Thrown into the chilling spotlight is the grim narrative of Jamal Khashoggi's ill-fated visit to the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Unaware of the clandestine scheme that awaited him, Khashoggi had sought to procure divorce papers for his impending marriage. Yet, the walls of the consulate concealed an orchestrated plot by Riyadh officials designed to permanently hush their growing critic. The horrifying end, including sedation, suffocation and dismemberment, was swift and well-executed.

Turkish Intelligence's Shattering Reveal

Evidence of the gruesome proceedings inside the consulate had been unknowingly recorded by Turkish intelligence. The dastardly act not only shocked the world but also shook the amiable ties shared between Turkey and Saudi Arabia. Khashoggi's story stands, not simply as an individual tragedy, but an international faultline in diplomatic relations, reminding us all of the precarious waters navigated when confronting power.

The Unveiling of a Grisly Execution

Cracking the Curtain of Deception

In October of 2018, the world was thrust into a chilling crime narrative. Revealed through intercepted Saudi embassy recordings in Turkey was the planned assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The details were so shocking, they frozen even world leaders in their tracks. Notably, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

The Rising Tides of Outrage

Erdoğan was incensed, rattled by the brutality of the crime and the blatant denial from Saudi Arabia. In a strategic move, he began to gradually release information about the killing to the public, to challenge Saudi's innocence and possibly wield power over Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi's Crown prince.

Dodging Blame on the International Stage

Despite the pressure, Prince Mohammed brushed aside any involvement, pointing fingers at rogue killers. The brutality of the murder repulsed an international audience who began questioning Saudi Arabia's conduct.

The Influence of Business Priorities

While some business leaders recoiled in the wake of the crime, others kept their gaze on business pursuits with the kingdom. The case is still not fully closed, as the CIA concluded that it was likely Prince Mohammed who ordered the hit. Aided by Turkey, the United Nations is digging deeper but, the entire story is yet to emerge.

Racing Towards Change: Mohammed's Strategic Play

Strategy on Display at Riyadh Race

The Formula E race in Riyadh, a mega event that served as a strategic showcase of Saudi Arabia's transformation. Initiated by Mohammed bin Salman, it demonstrated his ambitious vision for the nation's economic and societal reform.

Deftly sidestepping the Khashoggi uproar, he sparked global intrigue by inviting revered celebrities and influential figures to grace the event, successfully signaling that Saudi Arabia was far from isolated.

Shaky Support Amidst Global Controversies

Yet, the aftermath of the Khashoggi incident put the spotlight on a notable shift among Western allies. Mohammed's once staunch supporters began drifting apart, their loyalty wavering amidst the controversies. In stark contrast, certain business tycoons continued to back him, undeterred by unfurling events.

The Vulnerable Shields of Saudi Defense

The assault on Saudi's oil facilities peeled back the curtain on a worrying aspect - the country's precarious defense system. This incident hinted at a possible involvement of Iran, stirring up a storm and redefining the dynamics of Saudi’s once stable alliance with the United States.

Mohammed’s Rebound Agenda for 2020

Despite the hurdles, Mohammed remained unwavering in his political dreams for 2020. His agenda included resolving rifts like the Qatar boycott, facilitating peace in war-torn Yemen, and pulling off a prosperous G-20 meeting in Saudi Arabia — marking it as his comeback year.

Power Moves in the Oil Kingdom

The Strategy Behind the Oil Flood

Embarking on an audacious, high-stakes game, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, opted to inundate the oil markets. Hoping the move would spike the country's profit and corner Russia into reinstating a production cut, he risked a worldwide oil crisis. Simultaneously, this daring strategy exposed the vulnerability of Saudi's economy, tightly tethered as it is to the oil sector.

Family Crackdown Amidst Oil Crisis

Mohammed bin Salman didn't stop at destabilizing the oil markets; he launched a ruthless family crackdown too. In this power play, his immediate casualties were his older half brother, Abdulaziz bin Salman, the Minister of Energy, and his uncle, Ahmed bin Abdulaziz. These bold actions serve to assert Mohammed's foothold, marking his path to the Saudi throne.