We’re starting to see a new era of US–Saudi ties emerging.

The meetings and the agreements signed show the relationship is broadening in many ways. It has long centered on energy and defense, and it’s growing beyond that now. It’s still energy-based in the sense that Saudi Aramco is investing in US LNG and there’s the beginning of a civil nuclear partnership, but it’s more than that. Tech is playing a big role, and the Saudi domestic energy landscape ties into that.

What do new US ties mean for Saudi’s OPEC+ leadership?

Over the last couple of years, Saudi Arabia has shouldered a lot of the OPEC+ cuts while non-OPEC growth posted strong gains. It was clear another approach was warranted. This is just the latest iteration of Saudi leadership within the alliance.

Is the US putting Iran oil sanctions aside now?

US policy will depend on its mercurial foreign-policy approach. If Iran becomes particularly aggressive with shipping, there may be an attempt to bring the hammer down again. But concerns about prices and disruptions make the US reluctant to push anything that risks tightening supply unless necessary. It’s something to watch, but not an imminent major supply risk for now.