Saudi Arabia finally gets a US ambassador after 2-year vacancy
The career diplomat’s confirmation follows China's brokered deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran, as well as improving relations between Washington and Riyadh.
![US Consul General of Jerusalem Michael Ratney speaks at the American consulate in Jerusalem on June 4, 2015 during a reception ahead of the 4th of July American Independence day celebrations. AFP PHOTO/AHMAD GHARABLI (Photo credit should read AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP via Getty Images)](/sites/default/files/styles/article_hero_medium/public/2023-03/GettyImages-475858478.jpg?h=003dfffc&itok=9v3dv6BW)
The Senate confirmed Michael Ratney on Wednesday to serve as US ambassador to Saudi Arabia, almost a year since he was nominated to the position. The confirmation follows improvements in US-Saudi relations, including a significant multibillion dollar Boeing purchase this week.
Background: Ratney, 62, is a career foreign service officer. He most recently served as acting deputy director of the State Department’s Foreign Service Institute.