Informal Pro-MBS Account Sparks Debate: Between Extremism and Reform
A tweet from an informal pro-MBS account draws sharp contrasts between alleged extremist-supporting leaders and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Behind the tweet lies a deeper narrative of political branding and regional rivalry.
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Informal Pro-MBS Account Sparks Debate: Between Extremism and Reform
YEREL GÜNDEM / RIYADH
A Tweet Echoes the Kingdom’s New Image — and Old Tensions
A recent tweet from the informal X account @HRHMBNSALMAAN, which frequently posts content supportive of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), has reignited conversations about leadership, regional politics, and ideological divides in the Middle East.
The tweet contrasts two archetypes of leadership: one that allegedly funds terrorism and destabilizes Muslim nations, and another — personified by MBS — that works late into the night for the benefit of the nation and its citizens. “May God protect Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman,” it concludes, in a tone both reverent and politically charged.
A Battle of Narratives: Reform vs. Radicalism
The post, while not from an official government account, reflects the ideological dichotomy Saudi Arabia has long sought to project since MBS launched his ambitious Vision 2030 reforms. In this vision, the Kingdom positions itself as the beacon of moderation, modernization, and stability — in stark contrast to unnamed but heavily implied rivals in the region.
While no country is directly mentioned, the framing unmistakably points toward regional adversaries such as Iran, whose foreign policy and proxy support in the Middle East have drawn accusations of fueling conflict in countries like Yemen, Syria, and Iraq.
Not Just a Tweet — A Political Signal
Though informal, the account’s language mimics state rhetoric. The suggestion that other leaders “serve terrorism” and “drain their people’s money” is not casual commentary — it is strategic messaging, amplifying the Saudi narrative that the Kingdom under MBS is a pillar of order, while others thrive on chaos.
Such messaging resonates domestically, bolstering MBS’s image as a disciplined, visionary reformer who works tirelessly — “until midnight” — alongside his ministers to develop Saudi Arabia’s economy, governance, and global standing.
The Politics of Informality
Crucially, the account is labeled “Informal,” raising questions about its origin, purpose, and level of coordination with official communication channels. In authoritarian or semi-authoritarian states, such accounts can function as plausible deniability tools: voicing controversial positions the state may not publicly endorse, yet allowing them to circulate in the media and public discourse.
It also points to a broader digital diplomacy strategy, where unofficial influencers help shape the narrative ecosystem surrounding powerful figures like MBS, without the constraints of formal press briefings.
From Personal Image to Geopolitical Positioning
The tweet plays a dual role: glorifying MBS’s personal dedication and framing Saudi Arabia as a responsible global actor. As the Kingdom continues to rebrand itself — hosting major diplomatic summits, investing heavily in tech and tourism, and opening cultural spaces — such messaging serves as soft power armor in an era of ideological warfare.
But the core question remains: Can this narrative stand against scrutiny? While MBS has indeed implemented significant reforms, his leadership has also faced criticism on issues like press freedom, the war in Yemen, and human rights violations. Therefore, tweets like this don’t merely project power — they invite scrutiny, domestically and globally.
Conclusion: More Than Midnight Meetings
This post may seem like a simple show of support for a crown prince, but in reality, it is a crafted political statement. It reflects not only internal loyalty but also Saudi Arabia’s evolving identity on the global stage — one where reform, control, and reputation are in constant negotiation.
Whether spontaneous or state-backed, such messages serve a purpose: to remind both allies and rivals who the Kingdom sees as the problem — and who it wants the world to see as the solution.
