

Trump in the Gulf
May 10, 2025
Yasmine Farouk, Ali Vaez, and Michael Wahid Hanna, experts at Crisis Group, dive into Trump’s anticipated Gulf trip. They discuss the significant interplay of U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations and regional security, highlighting Iran's urgent need for a deal amidst crises. The conversation spans the humanitarian disaster in Gaza and its international implications, Saudi Arabia's pivotal role in U.S. policy, and the potential for normalization with Israel. Their insights illuminate the complex geopolitical dynamics shaping the Middle East today.
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Gulf Trip Focuses on Trade
- President Trump's visit to Gulf states is largely focused on trade and investment deals.
- The Gulf region's openness to Trump reflects alignment with his dealmaking worldview and economic priorities.
Saudi-US Security and Tech Interests
- Saudi Arabia seeks deeper bilateral US security cooperation without tying it directly to Israel normalization.
- Priorities include faster weapons access, defence technology transfer, and a civilian nuclear program.
Progress and Ambition in Iran Talks
- US-Iran negotiations have progressed with multiple rounds and direct contacts recently.
- Both sides want more comprehensive and improved terms than the 2015 deal.