Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud has been diagnosed with a lung inflammation and is currently receiving treatment, according to the Saudi news agency SPA. As a result, the country’s Crown Prince has decided to delay his planned trip to Japan.
The 88-year-old King Salman was diagnosed with the inflammation following medical tests, and is now being treated with antibiotics in Jeddah, as reported by SPA on Sunday.
His son, Mohammed bin Salman, who is the Crown Prince and de facto leader of Saudi Arabia, had to cancel his trip to Tokyo because of his father's health.
The Japanese Foreign Ministry mentioned that they will try to reschedule the visit for a later time.
Earlier on Sunday, bin Salman had a meeting with US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan in Dhahran. They talked about regional issues, such as the situation in Gaza. It was emphasized during the discussion the importance of ending the conflict and working towards a two-state solution.
King Salman had surgery in 2020 to take out his gallbladder. He became the King of Saudi Arabia after King Abdullah passed away in 2015.
In 2017, he replaced Mohammed bin Nayef with his son as the crown prince.
Editor's P/S:
The news of King Salman's health condition brings concern for the stability of Saudi Arabia, especially considering his advanced age. The Crown Prince's delayed trip to Japan highlights the importance of his father's well-being and the potential impact it could have on international relations. It is crucial that the King receives the necessary medical attention and that his health status is transparently communicated to the public.
The discussion between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on regional issues, particularly the situation in Gaza, underscores Saudi Arabia's active role in shaping Middle Eastern diplomacy. The emphasis on ending the conflict and pursuing a two-state solution demonstrates the country's commitment to fostering peace and stability in the region. It is important to monitor the progress of these talks and their potential implications for the wider Middle East.