King Salman of Saudi Arabia, aged 88, has successfully recuperated after undergoing medical examinations for lung inflammation on Wednesday, according to the royal court, as reported by the state news agency (SPA).
Earlier on Tuesday, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, reassured the cabinet about the health of his father, King Salman, for the lung infection.The 39-year-old prince expressed “appreciation to everyone who inquired about his health” during the weekly cabinet meeting, as reported by the official Saudi Press Agency.
Prior to the statement from the crown prince, state media had announced on Sunday that the 88-year-old King Salman had a lung infection and would be undergoing tests “based on the recommendations of the royal clinics”. Although King Salman has been on the throne since 2015, Prince Mohammed has been acting as the day-to-day ruler since becoming first in line to the throne in 2017.
As the world’s largest crude oil exporter, Saudi Arabia has long sought to quell speculation over King Salman’s health. In May, the Royal Court disclosed that he was suffering from a lung infection, high temperature, and joint pain, and was undergoing a treatment program involving antibiotics. Shortly after, it was announced that he had recovered. The last cabinet meeting chaired by King Salman was on September 24.
Prior to his reign as king, Salman served as the governor of Riyadh for decades and also held the position of defense minister. His reign has been characterized by ambitious social and economic reforms, largely managed by his son, Prince Mohammed, who is working to position Saudi Arabia for a future beyond oil. However, the prince has also overseen an intense crackdown on dissent, which analysts believe has helped him consolidate power.