King Salman's Royal Decree: A New Protocol for Saudi Cabinet Meetings

Saudi Arabia's King Salman has issued a royal decree allowing the cabinet to convene in the absence of both himself and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This change comes amidst recent health concerns for the 88-year-old king. The decree stipulates that the eldest cabinet member, descended from founding King Abdulaziz, will chair meetings during their absence.

In a significant move, Saudi Arabia's King Salman has issued a royal decree that allows the cabinet to convene in the absence of both himself and the prime minister, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. State media reported this development on Thursday.

The 88-year-old king, who is at the helm of the world's largest oil exporter and a crucial U.S. ally in the Middle East, recently received medical care for lung inflammation. This health scare led Prince Mohammed to postpone an official visit to Japan. Nonetheless, the king chaired a cabinet meeting via video conference a week later, which state TV broadcasted.

Crown Prince Mohammed, 38, who has been the kingdom's de facto ruler since being named heir in 2017, added the title of prime minister in 2022. The royal decree specifies that in the absence of both the king and the crown prince, or his deputies, the eldest cabinet member who is a descendant of founding King Abdulaziz Al Saud will chair the meetings. Decisions made in such instances will be signed by the chairman. The cabinet currently includes two of King Salman's sons, Defence Minister Prince Khalid and Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz.

(With inputs from agencies.)