Saudi King Salman makes early mark, reshapes policy

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates—Saudi Arabia’s new monarch isn’t wasting time.

Since assuming the throne Jan. 23, King Salman has elevated some of his closest relatives and sidelined previous power-brokers, tightened decision-making and promised lavish payouts designed to win early goodwill.

While his new administration gives greater prominence to younger generations, it remains to be seen whether the swift housecleaning will lead to greater political rights and other reforms in the ultraconservative kingdom.

One clear winner in the shake-up is Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, who has been interior minister since 2012 and spearheads counterterrorism efforts.

King Salman named the 55-year-old as deputy crown prince in one of his first acts as king. That’s a historic change, because for the first time it puts a grandson of Saudi Arabia’s founder, King Abdul-Aziz Al Saud, on course to rule. He becomes second in line to the throne behind Salman’s half brother Crown Prince Muqrin, who is 69.

Mohammed bin Nayef, who helped to establish a center for rehabilitating former jihadists, survived a 2009 assassination attempt — a suicide bombing orchestrated by al-Qaida’s branch in neighboring Yemen.

He studied in the US state of Oregon and has worked to strengthen American-Saudi ties. Shortly before King Abdullah’s death, Mohammed bin Nayef held talks with President Barack Obama in the Oval Office focused on fighting terrorism and other security issues.

Simon Henderson, director of the Gulf and Energy Policy Program at The Washington Institute, described him as “Mr. Security” with favorable reviews from US officials.

Another rising star is one of the king’s sons, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is in his mid-30s.

Salman named the prince as his replacement as defense minister hours after taking the throne. Mohammed bin Salman also oversees royal protocol and is a special adviser to the king, increasing his influence in the royal court. AP