Former President Donald Trump recently mocked President Joe Biden’s interaction with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, specifically referencing Biden’s fist bump with the Saudi leader. Trump stated, “Trump doesn’t give a fist bump,” before adding, “I grabbed that hand. I don’t give a hell where that hand’s been. I grabbed that hand.” This statement, shared widely on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), is perceived as a direct contrast to Biden’s approach, which some viewed as an attempt to navigate diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia amidst ongoing human rights concerns.
The exchange highlights the divergent approaches taken by the two presidents in engaging with international leaders. While Biden’s fist bump aimed to balance diplomacy with concerns over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record—particularly regarding the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi—Trump’s statement emphasizes a more direct and seemingly less cautious approach. As of recent reports, the United States continues to grapple with balancing its strategic interests in the Middle East, including oil production and regional stability, with its commitment to human rights and democratic values.