Via Politico:

The White House on Thursday praised the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz al Saud of Saudi Arabia, a longtime close ally of the United States — if sometimes a troublesome one.

“King Abdullah’s life spanned from before the birth of modern Saudi Arabia through its emergence as a critical force within the global economy and a leader among Arab and Islamic nations,” President Barack Obama said in a statement.

“He took bold steps in advancing the Arab Peace Initiative, an endeavor that will outlive him as an enduring contribution to the search for peace in the region. At home, King Abdullah’s vision was dedicated to the education of his people and to greater engagement with the world.”

The White House also announced Thursday that Vice President Joe Biden would lead a U.S. delegation to Saudi Arabia to pay respects to the Saudi royal family.

Update: