Crown Prince Salman to become King this week

Saudi King Salman is planning to step down and name Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as his successor for the throne.

King Salman plans to continue only as a ceremonial figurehead and give full power to his son, Prince Salman.

The succession will probably take place next week, but due to the ongoing political crisis in Saudi anything can happen.

According to reports once full power is granted to Salman, the new king will ramp up hostilities against Saudi Arabia’s bitter rival Iran, with fears of a possible military clash. Mohammed will also target Hezbollah, the Shia militia in Lebanon that is backed by Iran, the source said.

“MBS’s plan is to start the fire in Lebanon, but he’s hoping to count on Israeli military backing. He has already promised Israel billions of dollars in direct financial aid if they agree,” a source was quoted as saying.

MBS is the short form of Crown Prince Salman's name.