The powerful crown prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, has been appointed as the prime minister.

Mohammed bin Salman, the 37-year-old son of King Salman bin Abdulaziz, will now serve as head of the government. A royal order announcing his promotion from Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister has given him the responsibility of the chief executive body of the state. Another of his sons, Crown Prince Khalid bin Salman, has been appointed as the new defence minister by royal decree.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was also accused of being involved in the murder of Saudi journalist Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018. However, he has been denying his involvement in the murder.