Saudi King Salman Decrees Cabinet Autonomy

Saudi Arabia's King Salman has issued a decree allowing the cabinet to convene without him or Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The 88-year-old king was recently treated for lung inflammation, leading to postponed official visits. In their absence, the eldest cabinet member descendent of founding King Abdulaziz will chair meetings.

Saudi Arabia's King Salman issued a significant royal decree permitting the cabinet to convene sans himself or Prime Minister Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, state media reported on Thursday.

The 88-year-old monarch received medical treatment for lung inflammation in May, which led to Crown Prince Mohammed postponing an official visit to Japan due to his father's health concerns. Just a week later, the king was seen leading a cabinet meeting via video conference, according to state television footage.

In scenarios where both the king and crown prince are absent, the royal decree specifies that the eldest cabinet member, who is a descendant of Salman's father, founding King Abdulaziz Al Saud, will preside over meetings. All decisions made during such times will need to be signed by this chairman, the decree outlines.

(With inputs from agencies.)