King Salman's New Decree Changes Saudi Cabinet Dynamics

Saudi Arabia's King Salman issued a royal decree allowing the cabinet to convene without his or Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's presence. This move comes after the 88-year-old king's recent health issues. Prince Mohammed has been the de facto ruler since 2017. In their absence, the cabinet will be chaired by the eldest member who is a descendant of founding King Abdulaziz Al Saud.

Saudi Arabia's King Salman issued a royal decree allowing cabinet meetings to proceed without his or Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's presence, state media reported on Thursday.

Following the 88-year-old king's recent health issues, Crown Prince Mohammed postponed an official visit to Japan. Despite his health, the king chaired a cabinet meeting a week later via video conference.

Prince Mohammed, 38, has been Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler since he was named heir in 2017. The new decree names the eldest cabinet member, a descendant of founding King Abdulaziz Al Saud, as chairman in their absence. The cabinet includes seven descendants of the founding king.

(With inputs from agencies.)