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Americans Furious After Trump Is Seen Saluting Saudi Officials At The Royal Court In Riyadh

He always sides with the wrong people

584
584 points

When Donald Trump saluted Saudi military officials during his visit to Riyadh, it wasn’t just a polite gesture—it quickly turned into a considerable controversy. That one salute made during his Middle East trip shocked and angered many Americans. It has also started debates about Trump’s foreign policy, his close ties to questionable governments, and what it means for a U.S. president to stand for American values.

Saluting foreign military officials is common during diplomatic visits, but it carries significant meaning—especially when the country involved has a history of human rights abuses. Saudi Arabia, where Trump visited, has faced widespread criticism for its role in the war in Yemen, its treatment of journalists, and its oppression of women and political dissent. Despite these serious issues, Trump’s salute to Saudi officials appears to strengthen the relationship between the U.S. and the kingdom, which has raised concerns among many Americans.

Trump had already faced backlash in 2018 for saluting a North Korean general. He defended the action as a diplomatic gesture, but many felt it was inappropriate to honor an adversary in that way. However, this situation feels different. While Saudi Arabia is an important U.S. ally, it is also under increasing scrutiny for its actions, especially the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

The reactions to Trump’s salute have been fast and intense on social media. Many people have called it “disgusting” and “embarrassing.” The moment has struck a chord with those who believe the president should maintain a higher standard when it comes to human rights, particularly when dealing with countries like Saudi Arabia.

Here are just a few of the many reactions online.

Retired U.S. Army Major General Paul D. Eaton criticized Trump’s actions, calling them “wholly inappropriate.” He believes that, as president, Trump should stand for human rights and American values, not just pursue business deals with foreign leaders. Many believe the president should focus on what’s best for the American people, not his business interests.

Trump’s long relationship with Saudi Arabia has been widely criticized. He often talks about the country’s huge wealth, especially the $600 billion investment deal, which makes people question his priorities. Some wonder if Trump’s foreign policy is more about what helps him personally than what’s good for the U.S.

What happened in Riyadh shows how tricky international diplomacy can be. Saluting foreign military officials might seem small, but it carries a strong message. It shows where a president’s loyalties lie. When those loyalties seem to clash with American values, it can cause problems at home and worldwide.

Featured image via X screengrab

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Terry Lawson

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I'm Terry Lawson, a writer and editor from Alabama. For the past five years, I've worked as a ghostwriter for different companies, creating content that fits their needs. Right now, I work as an editor and political writer for Political Tribune, writing engaging articles. I enjoy writing and have strong skills in writing, editing, critical thinking, and project management. My work is driven by a love for storytelling and a focus on quality. You can find me on Twitter (X) at https://x.com/terrylwsn?t=9c8qdqDw3JqNxJybEBVn_w&s=09.

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