King Salman and his entourage have moved quickly to consolidate power in their hands since the death of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz. Salman's son Mohammed has become a key player in keeping with the Saudi monarchical tradition.
The Saudi succession from King Abdullah to King Salman was a model of stability. As expected, the heir apparent ascended to the throne and the third in line moved up to be the new crown prince, Muqrin bin Abdulaziz. Salman was quick to chose a new second deputy prime minister, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, who has made his reputation fighting al-Qaeda. The line of succession is now clearly established and will pass from the sons of the modern kingdom's founder, Abdulaziz Ibn Al Saud, to his grandsons after Muqrin.