In 'Blood and Oil: Mohammed bin Salman's Ruthless Quest for Global Power,' authors Bradley Hope and Justin Scheck delve into the compelling and controversial story of Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). The book provides a detailed account of MBS's rapid rise to power, his ambitious economic and social reforms, and the dark side of his rule, including human rights abuses and aggressive foreign policies. Through a mix of investigative journalism and expert analysis, the authors offer an intimate look at the young prince's vision for his country and the tumultuous journey he has embarked upon to achieve it.
Key Takeaways
Mohammed bin Salman's ascent to power marks a significant shift in Saudi Arabian politics, characterized by his bold Vision 2030 and sweeping economic reforms.
MBS's rule has been marked by a series of controversial actions, including the Yemen conflict, the Ritz-Carlton anti-corruption purge, and the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
The Crown Prince has pursued a complex web of international relations, seeking to balance traditional alliances with the West while forging new ones with Russia and China.
Despite the kingdom's oil wealth, MBS is faced with economic challenges and is pushing for diversification through global investments and the controversial Saudi Aramco IPO.
Social and cultural reforms under MBS's leadership, such as increased women's rights and the development of the entertainment and tourism sectors, are reshaping Saudi society amidst tensions between modernization and tradition.
The Rise of Mohammed bin Salman
Early Life and Ascent to Power
Mohammed bin Salman's journey to becoming the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia is marked by rapid advancement and strategic positioning within the Saudi royal family. His early life was shaped by both privilege and an acute awareness of the intricate dynamics of power within the Kingdom. As a young prince, he was known for his ambition and keen interest in national affairs, often shadowing his father, King Salman, in governmental meetings.
Born on August 31, 1985, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Son of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and his third wife, Fahda bint Falah bin Sultan
Earned a bachelor's degree in law from King Saud University
His ascent to power began in earnest when his father ascended the throne in 2015. Mohammed bin Salman quickly rose through the ranks, taking on roles of increasing responsibility. His appointment as Crown Prince in 2017 solidified his status as the de facto ruler of the country, with sweeping powers over the economy, military, and internal governance.
Vision 2030 and Economic Reforms
At the heart of Mohammed bin Salman's transformative agenda is Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at reducing Saudi Arabia's dependence on oil and diversifying its economy. The plan includes a series of ambitious projects and economic reforms designed to foster a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation.
Development of non-oil industries such as tourism, entertainment, and mining.
Privatization of certain government services to increase efficiency.
Attracting foreign investment through regulatory reforms.
The implementation of Vision 2030 has faced challenges, including the need to balance traditional values with modern economic practices, and the impact of external factors such as fluctuating oil prices and geopolitical tensions.
Consolidation of Power and Political Maneuvers
Mohammed bin Salman's rise to power was marked by a series of strategic moves that solidified his control over Saudi Arabia's political landscape. His rapid ascent was characterized by the sidelining of potential rivals and the restructuring of key government bodies to centralize authority.
Vision 2030 served as a catalyst for these changes, providing a framework for economic and social reforms that also allowed for a reorganization of power structures. The young prince's bold decisions often led to a concentration of power that was unprecedented in the kingdom's recent history.
Removal of senior officials and princes from positions of power
Creation of new government bodies directly under the crown prince's control
Introduction of laws and regulations to strengthen the central government's hold
Controversial Policies and Actions
The Yemen Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis
Mohammed bin Salman's decision to intervene in Yemen has led to a protracted conflict with significant humanitarian implications. The Saudi-led coalition's military campaign has been marked by widespread destruction and a heavy civilian toll, contributing to what the United Nations has described as the world's worst humanitarian crisis.
Yemen, a country already grappling with poverty and instability, has seen its situation deteriorate further due to the conflict. Essential services and infrastructure have been decimated, leading to shortages of food, clean water, and medical care. The following points outline the dire consequences of the war:
Severe food insecurity affecting millions
Cholera outbreaks due to damaged water sanitation systems
Displacement of over 3 million people
The Ritz-Carlton Crackdown on Corruption
In what was seen as a bold move to consolidate power under the guise of anti-corruption, Mohammed bin Salman orchestrated a sweeping crackdown in November 2017. High-ranking princes, government ministers, and prominent businessmen were detained at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Riyadh. The event sent shockwaves through the Saudi elite, signaling a new era of governance under the Crown Prince's rule.
The crackdown was officially aimed at eradicating corruption, which had long plagued Saudi Arabia. However, critics argue that it also served to neutralize potential rivals and consolidate the Crown Prince's control over the kingdom's wealth and power structures.
The detainees included 11 princes, 4 ministers, and dozens of former ministers.
Assets and bank accounts were frozen, with settlements demanding financial returns to the state.
The total amount recovered was reported to be over $100 billion.
The Murder of Jamal Khashoggi
The assassination of Jamal Khashoggi in October 2018 sent shockwaves around the world, casting a long shadow over Mohammed bin Salman's international reputation. The incident highlighted the extreme measures the Saudi regime might employ against dissidents.
The global response was a mix of outrage and geopolitical maneuvering, with many countries grappling with how to balance moral condemnation with strategic interests. The following points summarize the key aspects of the aftermath:
International condemnation and calls for accountability
Saudi government's shifting explanations
Impact on Saudi Arabia's foreign relations
International Relations and Diplomacy
Relationship with the United States
The relationship between Mohammed bin Salman and the United States has been a complex blend of strategic alliances and occasional tensions. The U.S. has historically been a key ally of Saudi Arabia, providing security guarantees and arms sales in exchange for stable oil supplies and cooperation in Middle Eastern affairs.
Economic ties have also been significant, with Saudi investments in the U.S. and American companies playing a major role in the Saudi economy. However, human rights issues and regional conflicts have sometimes strained this partnership.
Strategic military cooperation
Economic and investment partnerships
Diplomatic engagements on regional security
The future of this relationship will likely continue to evolve as global energy markets change and as both countries reassess their foreign policy priorities.
Ties with Russia and China
Mohammed bin Salman has strategically nurtured ties with both Russia and China, recognizing their growing influence on the global stage. The partnership with China is particularly significant, given its status as the largest importer of Saudi oil and its investments in various sectors within the kingdom. Saudi Arabia's relationship with Russia has been more complex, balancing cooperation in oil production with competition in the energy market.
Economic interests have been the driving force behind these relationships, with Saudi Arabia engaging in numerous joint ventures and investment initiatives. The kingdom's pivot to Asia aligns with its Vision 2030 goals to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on Western markets.
The following list highlights key areas of collaboration between Saudi Arabia and China:
Infrastructure development under the Belt and Road Initiative
Technological cooperation, including in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI)
Increased Chinese tourism to Saudi Arabia
Cultural exchanges to foster deeper bilateral understanding
Middle East Dynamics and the Qatar Blockade
The blockade of Qatar by Saudi Arabia, along with the UAE, Bahrain, and Egypt, marked a significant shift in Middle East dynamics. Initiated in June 2017, the blockade aimed to pressure Qatar into aligning more closely with Saudi-led policies, particularly regarding Iran and Islamist groups.
The blockade's impact on regional politics was profound, with Qatar seeking closer ties with Turkey and Iran to counterbalance the isolation. This realignment has had lasting effects on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) unity and regional strategic partnerships.
The blockade led to increased economic self-reliance in Qatar.
Qatar improved its diplomatic relations with other regional players.
The crisis highlighted the fragility of GCC alliances.
Economic Ambitions and Challenges
The Public Investment Fund and Global Investments
The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia represents the cornerstone of the kingdom's economic diversification efforts. As the sovereign wealth fund, PIF has been pivotal in steering the country away from its traditional oil-based economy towards more varied and sustainable investments. The fund's aggressive expansion into global markets is a testament to Mohammed bin Salman's vision for a modernized Saudi economy.
Strategic investments across various sectors, including technology, entertainment, and renewable energy, have positioned the PIF as a major player on the international stage. These investments are not only aimed at generating financial returns but also at securing long-term economic stability for the kingdom.
Tesla
Uber
SoftBank Vision Fund
The PIF's role in the kingdom's future cannot be overstated. Its success or failure will have profound implications for the Saudi economy and, by extension, the global financial landscape. As such, the fund's activities are closely watched by investors and policymakers around the world.
Oil Dependency and Diversification Efforts
Saudi Arabia's economy has long been synonymous with oil, a sector that has fueled its wealth and global influence. However, recognizing the risks of over-reliance on a single resource, Mohammed bin Salman has spearheaded efforts to diversify the kingdom's economy. Vision 2030 is the ambitious blueprint aimed at reducing oil dependency and promoting various non-oil industries.
Renewable energy, tourism, and technology are key areas identified for development. The kingdom is investing heavily in solar and wind projects, aiming to leverage its vast desert landscapes and sunny climate. In tourism, historical sites and the Red Sea coastline are being transformed into luxury destinations.
Solar Energy Projects
Wind Power Initiatives
Red Sea Tourism Developments
NEOM, the futuristic mega-city
Investment in Technology and Innovation
The Future of Saudi Aramco and IPO Controversies
The much-anticipated initial public offering (IPO) of Saudi Aramco marked a pivotal moment in the kingdom's economic diversification efforts. The IPO was touted as the largest in history, aiming to raise significant capital for Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030. However, the journey was fraught with controversies, including valuation disputes and international skepticism regarding transparency and governance.
Valuation concerns: Investors questioned the $2 trillion valuation sought by Saudi officials.
International listing hurdles: Major financial markets like New York and London were considered for the listing, but regulatory and political challenges posed significant obstacles.
Domestic focus: Ultimately, the IPO took place on the Tadawul stock exchange in Riyadh, with a scaled-down valuation.
Mohammed bin Salman's Vision for Saudi Society
Social Reforms and Women's Rights
Under Mohammed bin Salman's leadership, Saudi Arabia has witnessed significant social reforms, particularly concerning women's rights. The lifting of the driving ban for women in 2018 marked a historic moment, symbolizing a step towards gender equality. This move was part of a broader set of reforms known as Vision 2030, aimed at modernizing Saudi society and reducing its dependence on oil.
Women can now travel abroad without a male guardian's permission.
More women are entering the workforce and participating in public life.
The guardianship system has been relaxed, though not completely dismantled.
While these reforms have been praised internationally, they also face criticism for being overshadowed by simultaneous crackdowns on women's rights activists. The contrast between the push for social liberalization and the suppression of dissent remains a contentious aspect of Mohammed bin Salman's rule.
The Entertainment and Tourism Industry
Under the leadership of Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia has embarked on an ambitious journey to transform its entertainment and tourism industry. The kingdom has introduced a series of festivals, concerts, and sporting events to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on oil revenues.
The introduction of tourist visas for the first time in 2019
The development of mega-projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Project
The hosting of international events such as the Formula E and the Dakar Rally
The entertainment sector's expansion has not only provided economic benefits but also signaled a shift in the social fabric of the country, offering new avenues for cultural expression and leisure activities.
The Balancing Act Between Tradition and Modernization
Mohammed bin Salman's vision for Saudi society involves a delicate balancing act between maintaining the kingdom's traditional values and embracing modernization. This has led to a series of social reforms that have been both celebrated and scrutinized.
Social reforms have been a cornerstone of Mohammed bin Salman's agenda, aiming to transform the conservative social fabric of Saudi Arabia. These changes include allowing women to drive and the introduction of public entertainment options like cinemas and concerts.
While these reforms are a step towards modernity, they also reflect a strategic move to reshape the kingdom's image globally. The success of this balancing act is crucial for the future stability and prosperity of Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 'Blood and Oil' offers a gripping and detailed account of Mohammed bin Salman's rise to power and his impact on global politics and economics. Through Bradley Hope's investigative lens, readers gain insight into the complex interplay of ambition, wealth, and ruthlessness that characterizes the young prince's leadership. The book serves as a crucial resource for understanding the dynamics of the Saudi kingdom and its ambitious leader, whose decisions continue to shape the future of the Middle East and the world at large. It is a stark reminder of the potent mix of oil wealth and power in the modern era, and the lengths to which those in power will go to maintain and expand their influence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mohammed bin Salman and how did he rise to power?
Mohammed bin Salman, often referred to as MBS, is the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia. His rise to power began when his father, King Salman, ascended to the throne in 2015. MBS quickly consolidated power by taking on key positions in the government and sidelining potential rivals.
What is Vision 2030 and what economic reforms has MBS introduced?
Vision 2030 is a strategic framework aimed at reducing Saudi Arabia's dependence on oil, diversifying its economy, and developing public service sectors. MBS has introduced various economic reforms, including plans to expand the private sector and attract foreign investment.
What was the Ritz-Carlton crackdown and why did it happen?
The Ritz-Carlton crackdown was an anti-corruption campaign launched by MBS in 2017, where hundreds of prominent Saudi businessmen, officials, and princes were detained at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Riyadh. It was officially aimed at combating endemic corruption, but also served to consolidate MBS's power.
How has MBS's foreign policy affected international relations?
MBS's foreign policy has been assertive, with a focus on countering Iran's influence in the Middle East. His actions, such as the Yemen conflict and the Qatar blockade, have had significant regional and global implications, affecting relations with allies and adversaries alike.
What are the main goals of the Public Investment Fund under MBS?
The Public Investment Fund (PIF) is Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund. Under MBS, the PIF aims to become a global investment powerhouse, supporting the economic diversification of the country through strategic investments both domestically and internationally.
What social reforms has MBS implemented and how have they impacted Saudi society?
MBS has introduced several social reforms, including allowing women to drive, opening cinemas, and relaxing guardianship laws. These changes are part of his effort to modernize Saudi society and economy, but they have also sparked debate about the balance between tradition and modernization.