Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense | https://media.defense.gov
On August 6, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth held a call with Saudi Minister of Defense, His Royal Highness Khalid bin Salman. According to Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell, the discussion focused on strengthening bilateral defense cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia.
During the conversation, both officials reviewed ways to advance Saudi defense capabilities. This comes after the signing of $142 billion in Foreign Military Sales Memoranda of Intent during President Trump's visit to Riyadh in May 2025. The leaders also exchanged views on regional security matters, including ongoing situations in Syria and Iran.
Both sides reiterated their commitment to "advancing President Trump's vision for a Syria that is stable, inclusive, and at peace with itself and its neighbors," as stated by Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell.
