Gulf States Tour Focuses on Investments and Security
US President Donald Trump kicked off a tour of wealthy Gulf nations by landing in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, emphasizing the goal of securing trillions of dollars in investments rather than concentrating on pressing security issues such as the Gaza conflict or Iran’s nuclear ambitions. From the moment he stepped off Air Force One, Trump expressed enthusiasm, raising his fist in solidarity as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed him in Riyadh, accompanied by top business figures including billionaire Elon Musk.
Trump’s visit coincides with the Saudi-US Investment Forum, where he aims to attract significant financial commitments from Gulf oil producers. While Saudi Arabia had previously pledged $600 billion, Trump is pushing for $1 trillion in investments from the kingdom, a key strategic partner of Washington.
Expanding Economic Ties Beyond Oil
Saudi Investment Minister Khalid al-Falih highlighted the growing scope of economic opportunities during the forum’s opening. “While energy remains a cornerstone of our relationship, the investments and business opportunities in the kingdom have expanded and multiplied many, many times over,” he said. He stressed that when Saudis and Americans cooperate, “very good things happen, more often than not great things happen when those joint ventures happen.” This reflects the kingdom’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy through ambitious projects under the Vision 2030 reform plan.
Business Leaders Drive Investment Talks
The Saudi-US Investment Forum showcased a gathering of influential business leaders seated in a grand hall, including chief executives of major asset management firms and Saudi financial ministers. One CEO, who has visited Saudi Arabia over 65 times in two decades, noted the kingdom’s transformation from a follower to a leader in expanding its economy beyond oil.
During a reception at a royal palace, Elon Musk engaged briefly with both Trump and the Crown Prince, symbolizing the strong business ties between the US and Saudi Arabia. The kingdom’s Vision 2030 includes massive “Giga-projects” like NEOM, a futuristic city planned to be the size of Belgium, although some initiatives have been scaled back due to rising costs and falling oil prices.
Longstanding Security and Energy Partnership
For decades, Saudi Arabia and the US have maintained a robust relationship centered on a mutual agreement: the kingdom supplies oil, while the US provides security. This partnership continues to be a pillar of cooperation, even as Trump’s visit focuses heavily on investment deals.
Regional Tensions and Diplomatic Moves
Following Riyadh, Trump’s itinerary includes stops in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, but notably excludes Israel, raising questions about US priorities in the region. Israeli officials have publicly accepted the omission, yet behind the scenes, doubts grow about their place in Washington’s agenda amid frustration over the ongoing Gaza war.
In parallel, Trump is considering a trip to Turkey for potential peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, though the situation remains uncertain as key leaders have yet to confirm attendance. The administration is also advocating for new aid to Gaza and pressing Israeli leadership for a ceasefire.
Iranian Relations and Military Prospects
Meanwhile, US and Iranian negotiators recently met in Oman to discuss limiting Iran’s nuclear program, although Trump has warned that military action remains a possibility if diplomacy falters. Iran’s top military official urged neighboring countries to stay neutral, warning that any attack on Iran would provoke a decisive response.
Massive Arms Deal Anticipated
Sources indicate that Trump plans to offer Saudi Arabia an arms package valued at over $100 billion, potentially featuring a variety of advanced weaponry. His Middle East envoy expects progress soon on expanding the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab states. However, opposition from Israeli leadership to a permanent Gaza ceasefire or Palestinian statehood dampens hopes for similar agreements with Riyadh.
As the tour progresses, the balance between securing vast investments and addressing complex security challenges in the Gulf remains a delicate task for the US administration.