DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) – The 80-year-old Saudi monarch underwent medical tests on Sunday, state media reported, just weeks after replacing his pacemaker battery.
The official Saudi news agency report did not provide further details on King Salman’s condition or the nature of the medical examinations. It says the 86-year-old king was admitted to the King Faisal Special Hospital in the Saudi port city of Jeddah.
The health of the monarch is closely monitored because he has absolute power in the kingdom.
King Salman ascended the throne in 2015 and appointed his 36-year-old son, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as his successor. However, he has already authorized Prince Mohammed to lead the day-to-day affairs.
After his rise to power, Prince Mohammed overturned the kingdom with dizzying social reforms, eliminated royal rivals and dealt with alleged opponents, causing controversy.
Earlier this year, state media reported that King Salman had been hospitalized in Riyadh to have his heart pacemaker battery replaced. In 2020, he underwent surgery to remove his gallbladder after a hospital stay, which revived speculation about his health.
Add Comment