Latest news with #KingSalman
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Trump is not a king – but that doesn't stop him from reveling in his job's most ceremonial and exciting parts
Heads of state are the symbolic leader of a country. Some of them, like King Charles III of the United Kingdom, carry out largely ceremonial roles these days. Others, like Saudi Arabian King Salman, are absolute monarchs and involved in governing the country's day-to-day activities and policies. It also means that the Saudi monarch gets to do whatever he wants without much consequence from others. In the United States, the president is both the head of state and head of government. The head of government works with legislators and meets with other world leaders to negotiate agreements and navigate conflicts, among other responsibilities. Some presidents, like Jimmy Carter, got so bogged down in the specifics that the nighttime comedy show 'Saturday Night Live' made fun of it in 1977. 'SNL' spoofed Carter responding in extreme, mundane detail to a question about fixing a post office's letter sorting machines. As a political scientist who studies American presidents, I see that President Donald Trump loves the power and prestige that comes with being head of state, but does not seem to particularly enjoy the responsibility of being head of government. Trump rarely talks about the often-tedious process of governing, and instead acts with governance by decree by signing a flurry of executive orders to avoid working with other parts of the government. He has also likened himself to a king, writing on Feb. 19, 2025, 'Long Live the King!' As much as Trump loves hosting sports teams and talking about paving over the White House's rose garden in a remodeling project, he seems to begrudgingly accept the role of head of government. Trump revels in social events where he is heralded as the most important person in the room. On Feb. 9, 2025, Trump became the first sitting president to attend a Super Bowl. A week later, he attended the Daytona 500 at Daytona Beach, Florida, where his limousine led drivers in completing a ceremonial lap. Trump's preference for serving as head of state and not head of government was on full display during his now infamous Feb. 28, 2025, White House meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. In the televised Oval Office meeting, Trump repeatedly told Zelenskyy, 'You have to be thankful.' Trump was demanding deference from Zelenskyy to show his inferior and submissive position as a recipient of U.S. aid and military support. These are mannerisms of absolute kings, not elected officials. The beginning of Trump's second term in office has been filled with announcements of changes – mostly through executive actions. The Trump administration has ordered the Pentagon to stop cyber operations against Russia and fired hundreds of employees at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The administration has also closed the Social Security Administration's civil rights office and, among many other things, named the president chair of the Kennedy Center, a performance arts venue in Washington. Trump has enacted policy changes almost exclusively through executive orders, instead of working with Congress on legislation. Executive orders do not have to be negotiated with the legislative branch and can be written by a small team of advisers and approved by presidents. Within the first six weeks, Trump has signed more than 90 executive orders. By comparison, former President Joe Biden signed 162 executive orders during his four years in office. Many of Trump's executive orders are being challenged in court, and some have been found to likely not be constitutional. More importantly, Trump's successor can turn executive orders into confetti in an instant, simply with a signature. Trump himself has signed at least two executive orders that rescind over 60 previous executive orders, mostly signed by Biden. The fact that Trump has removed almost all of Biden's executive orders highlights how the orders can create change for a moment, or a few years. But when it comes to long-term policy change, congressional action is needed. Early in Trump's first term in 2017, the administration planned themed weeks called 'Made in America' and 'American Heroes,' for example, to emphasize changes it intended to pursue. Trump's staff launched, stopped and then relaunched a themed infrastructure week seven times in 2019. This happened after Trump repeatedly derailed infrastructure events to focus on a more interesting event or topic, ranging from defending his comments that seemed to suggest support for white supremacists to discussing the reboot of Roseanne Barr's sitcom. In his second term, Trump has farmed out many head of government tasks to other people, notably billionaire Elon Musk, who is leading the new so-called Department of Government Efficiency. By mid-February 2025, Trump gave Musk, who holds the title of special government employee, oversight for hiring decisions at every governmental agency. But as DOGE has initiated widespread cuts at different government agencies and offices in an effort to trim government waste, Musk has reportedly clashed with Trump's cabinet members. This includes Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as well as other independent agencies funded by Congress. Government agencies, funding recipients and others are pushing back against the cuts and at times are succeeding in getting court rulings that halt the dismissal of government workers, or reinstate other workers at their jobs. Trump also seems to have abdicated most responsibility of bureaucracy to others by allowing Musk's team unprecedented access to sensitive government programs and documents that include people's personal information. Absolute kings, queens, emperors and dictators are heads of state who demand obedience because they hold the nation in their grip. Presidents from elected democracies may, as in the case of the U.S., have a ceremonial aspect to the job, but it is only a part of it. The people democratically elect American presidents to serve everyone and provide the best government possible. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Shannon Bow O'Brien, The University of Texas at Austin Read more: Tyrannical leader? Why comparisons between Trump and King George III miss the mark on 18th-century British monarchy Trump's defiance of a federal court order fuels a constitutional crisis − a legal scholar unpacks the complicated case Donald Trump's nonstop news-making can be exhausting, making it harder for people to scrutinize his presidential actions Shannon Bow O'Brien does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Asharq Al-Awsat
5 hours ago
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Arabia Wants Progress for Itself and The World
Extraordinary progress has been made since the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman, and his Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, introduced Vision 2030 and set the Kingdom on a trajectory toward reform and innovation eight years ago. I will not go over the list of everything that has been already achieved, suffice to say that we have never seen progress at this pace in Saudi Arabia and perhaps the world. Yet, I've noticed the discontent in Western media. Some commentators criticize the Kingdom's approach and its bold, innovative mega-projects, raising doubts about our ability to achieve our ambitions. Most of the criticism amounts to little more than cheap shots and baseless unpersuasive claims. When they're not questioning NEOM's capacity to present a new model for sustainability, they are casting doubt, despite growing evidence that runs counter to their claims, on our ability to turn a land that had once been known for its sand and camels into a land of opportunity and hope. Yet, Saudi Arabia's efforts go far beyond its domestic metamorphosis. We have taken meaningful steps to promote peace and facilitate compromise among conflicting parties in our region and beyond. Our nation has exceeded expectations, taking bold positions with regard to ending conflicts in Yemen, Palestine, Iran, and Sudan. It has even played a leading role in efforts to end the war in Ukraine. We are a nation that is willing to take risks, adapt, and correct course when needed. The world often reads our fortunes from the fluctuation of oil prices, but our determination is the compass of the Saudi citizens. We are focused on our ability to consolidate stability- not only in global markets and economies but in international relations as well. Saudi Arabia is not vying to do well in a global popularity contest; it is relentlessly pursuing every possible avenue to improve the lives of its citizens, those of its Arab neighbors, and everyone in the world. Those sowing doubt and leaving a bitter taste in our mouths should know this: we are planting our seeds with care, patience, and adaptability. We will only savor the sweetness of our fruits after they ripen. Detractors have recently zeroed in on NEOM and The Line, claiming that these projects will harm the environment. However, this project essentially seeks to pioneer a new model of sustainability: a carbon-neutral city designed to become home to millions, foster innovation, and prove that we can live and thrive in harmony with the environment. Whatever it takes, Saudi Arabia will remain committed to realizing these goals. As for the flimsy and baseless criticisms, they will blow in the wind and be washed away by the rain. The Kingdom has already demonstrated its resolve to lead and to innovate. It has become a global frontier in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, urban development, fintech, and cybersecurity. Our nation is opening new doors, not closing windows or hiding behind excuses. Instead of criticizing these genuine positive efforts, the West should take a hard look at its own record. It remains the worst culprit of environmental destruction, pollution, and climate change to this day. The scale of waste in Western societies (of water and electricity, or through rampant overconsumption) is staggering. As Alexander Clapp shows in his book 'Waste Wars,' their pollution is often concealed behind the convenient fiction of recycling. In reality, their toxic waste is exported to the world's poorest countries. The media ought to investigate and confront this phenomenon instead of attacking Saudi Arabia's sincere efforts to offer new models of sustainability and environmental responsibility. Let them talk. Saudi Arabia is an optimistic nation driven by dynamism and ambition. Our visionary leaders have opened up new and unexpected horizons for national development and opportunity. We also understand that the road ahead will not always be straight or smooth and that progress demands adaptability and a willingness to make adjustments to address unforeseen obstacles. Our goal is simple: imagining and pursuing deliberate change, opening new doors, and sparking hope in progress for our people, our region, and the world. We welcome everyone who shares this spirit of innovation and audacity; we need one another. Amid fears of nuclear threats, conflicts fueled by artificial intelligence, rising tensions, anger, and division, Saudi Arabia believes that it is time to focus on progress, fresh thinking, and cooperation. We believe that we can help reverse the negative trajectory of global politics. We want to see humanity fulfill the divine promise not destroy the planet. The challenge, today, is to seek and apply new solutions. We must present a bold and constructive path forward for humanity while protecting our planet and the environment. The only way to achieve this is through action, and that is exactly what Saudi Arabia is doing.
Asharq Al-Awsat
11 hours ago
- Health
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Palestinian Minister to Asharq Al-Awsat: Saudi Arabia Showing Extraordinary Care to Palestinian Hajj Pilgrims
Palestinian Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs Mustafa Mohammed Najm hailed on Saturday the care accorded by Saudi Arabia to Hajj pilgrims, especially ones coming from Palestine. In remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, he noted the attention they receive from the moment they arrive in the Kingdom, saying that all of their needs are met. He also highlighted the preparations that have been made to ensure that pilgrims perform the Hajj smoothly and with ease. Such care reflects Saudi Arabia's pioneering role in serving the guests of the Two Holy Mosques, he went on to say. Moreover, he revealed that 6,600 Palestinians will be performing the Hajj this year; 2,508 come from Gaza and the rest from the West Bank. He added, however, that the war in Gaza has prevented would-be pilgrims from traveling from there for a second consecutive year. The Gaza pilgrims this year are actually residing in Egypt. The pilgrims were chosen through a draw to ensure fairness and transparency, explained the minister. Ninety percent of West Bank pilgrims were chosen this way, he revealed. Najm expressed his deep gratitude to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for the facilitations offered to the Palestinian pilgrims and the sophisticated services at their disposal from the moment they arrive in the Kingdom and until their departure. He noted that 1,000 places are allotted in Makkah every year to relatives of Palestinian martyrs and wounded, reflecting the care shown by Saudi Arabia to Palestine and its people. No one in the world has shown the same attention to the Palestinian pilgrims as Saudi Arabia, he stressed. 'They don't have to pay a single dime.' In May, King Salman issued directives to host 1,000 Palestinian pilgrims from the families of prisoners, and those killed or wounded in the Gaza war at his own expense to perform Hajj this year. Najm wished Saudi Arabia continued security, stability, progress and prosperity under its wise leadership. Moussa Mohammed Hassan, 60, a Palestinian pilgrim from Ariha, expressed his deep gratitude to Saudi Arabia for its warm reception and hospitality. He told Asharq Al-Awsat that he had a smooth journey from the West Bank to head to neighboring Jordan. From there, he took a flight to Saudi Arabia. 'Upon arrival in Madinah, we received a warm welcome, which is something we were expecting from the generous Saudi people,' he added. 'The four days we stayed in Madinah were the most beautiful of my life,' he remarked. He said the pilgrims received the same warm welcome in Makkah. 'We thank Saudi Arabia's government and people.' His roommate, Mahmoud Khamis al-Mashlah echoed his remarks. He added that he traveled with his wife, who is suffering from kidney failure. He explained that he accompanies her every other day for dialysis treatment at hospital in Madinah and in Makkah. 'The care that we found is beyond description,' he said of the Saudi facilities and medical teams. 'Words will never be enough to express the attention accorded to the Hajj pilgrims,' he added.
Saudi Gazette
a day ago
- Health
- Saudi Gazette
Grand Mufti: Performing Hajj without a permit is a sin
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars and Head of the General Presidency for Scholarly Research and Ifta Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, stressed the need to fully adhere to the instructions issued by the relevant authorities, most notably obtaining an official permit to perform the rituals. This was delivered in a directive to Muslims wishing to perform Hajj this year. The Grand Mufti emphasized that performing Hajj without a permit constitutes a grave violation of Islamic law, as it violates the system and the public interest. He warned that violating the instructions issued by the relevant Hajj authorities constitutes a clear violation of the orders of the ruler and is contrary to the Islamic Shariah. "Anyone who performs Hajj without a permit is guilty of a religious sin, as this harms public order and undermines the objectives of Islamic law, which are aimed at preserving order, preventing chaos, and achieving the interests of the servants." The Grand Mufti also urged all pilgrims to ensure they receive the health vaccinations prescribed by the Ministry of Health, emphasizing that preventing diseases and epidemics is a religious duty and a religious responsibility, especially during a season when Muslims flock from all over the world. He emphasized the importance of full cooperation with security and health authorities and adhering to their instructions, warning that "negligence in implementing instructions may expose the pilgrim to legal accountability and undermine the purpose of Hajj, which is worship, security, and safety." He praised the great efforts made by the Saudi government, under the leadership of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in facilitating the performance of the rituals and providing all necessary resources to ensure the safety and security of the guests of God. Meanwhile, the Grand Mufti received fatwa seekers at the headquarters of the General Presidency of Scientific Research and Ifta in Makkah. He assigned a number of scholars and sheikhs to answer pilgrims' inquiries during the Hajj season. These scholars include Sheikh Abdulsalam Al-Sulaiman, a member of the Council of Senior Scholars and member of the Permanent Committee for Ifta, at mobile number (0504222205); Sheikh Jibril Al-Basili, a member of the Council of Senior Scholars and official for Ifta in the Asir Region, at mobile number (0506741787); and Sheikh Abdullah Al Tayyar, official for Ifta in the Qassim region at mobile number (0556377792). The list of scholars also includes: the Fatwa official for the Makkah region Sheikh Muhammad Bazmoul on the number (0553480005), the Fatwa official for the Jazan region Sheikh Muhammad Shaiba,on the number (0504577218), and the General Department of Fatwa's number on the WhatsApp (0535256603).
Arab News
2 days ago
- General
- Arab News
Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud meets citizens of Taif Governorate
TAIF: Saudi Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif conveyed the greetings of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the citizens of Taif governorate. It came during his recent meeting with several citizens from the governorate, in the presence of Deputy Gov. of Makkah Region Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz and Taif Gov. Prince Saud bin Nahar. Taif is fast becoming a major tourist hub in the Kingdom, with visitors arriving from around the world, including the Gulf, to enjoy its pristine environment and natural attractions during holiday celebrations. The region is home to spacious valleys and ample water courses.
