Saudi Arabia’s King Salman underwent medical tests on Sunday night after being diagnosed with a lung infection, according to a statement from the Royal Court, marking the latest health update on the elderly monarch.
The Saudi Press Agency reported that the 88-year-old king would undergo tests “based on the recommendations of the royal medical team, due to a lung infection.” King Salman has ruled Saudi Arabia since 2015, while his son, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, 38, has handled daily governance since being named crown prince in 2017, as reported by AFP.
For years, Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest oil exporter, has kept tight control over information concerning the king’s health, often seeking to curb speculation. Although the monarch’s health is rarely discussed publicly, the Royal Court announced in May that he had been treated with antibiotics following a hospital visit for medical tests. Shortly afterward, it was confirmed that he had recovered.
In April, King Salman was admitted for “routine examinations” but was discharged the same day. He had also been hospitalized in May 2022 for a colonoscopy, staying over a week for additional tests and rest, according to the Saudi Press Agency at the time.
Earlier in 2022, he was admitted for what state media described as “successful medical tests” and to replace the battery in his pacemaker. In 2020, he had surgery to remove his gallbladder.
In 2017, Riyadh dismissed widespread speculation that King Salman was planning to step down in favor of his son, Prince Mohammed.
Before becoming king, Salman spent decades serving as the governor of Riyadh and later as defense minister. His reign has been marked by major social and economic reforms, primarily driven by Prince Mohammed, who is steering the kingdom towards a future less dependent on oil. The crown prince has also cracked down on dissent, a move that many analysts believe has solidified his hold on power.
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