The files we follow: Relations between Iran and its neighbouring countries; Relations between Iran and the United States; Relations between Iran and the BRICS; Relations between Turkey and the European Union; Relations between Turkey and the BRICS; Relations between the United States and the Gulf countries; Geopolitics of Yemen: between internal fragmentation and regional interference.
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Donald Trump’s Middle East tour marked first official trip abroad since re-election. From May 13 to 16, President Donald Trump traveled to Saudi Arabia, then to Qatar, before ending his diplomatic tour in the United Arab Emirates. While security issues were inevitably on the agenda during this regional tour, the president focused more on strengthening the strategic partnership with the Gulf monarchies. True to his transactional diplomacy, Donald Trump announced record-breaking deals.
A regional landscape in flux
This diplomatic tour took place in a tense security context in the Middle East. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the fight against the Houthis in Yemen, negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program, and Syria’s political transition: although conflict is nothing new in this region, the current moment is marked by the simultaneity of multiple crises that are reshaping the regional order. One notable aspect of this Middle East visit was the absence of the traditional stop in Israel. This trip came amid deteriorating relations between the Trump administration and the government of Benjamin Netanyahu. The United States appeared to have relegated Israeli interests to the background in its policy toward the Near and Middle East. These differences became apparent in the handling of the conflict with the Houthis, within the framework of negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program, and in the positive stance adopted toward Syria’s new authorities. In all these matters, the U.S. took positions contrary to Israeli interests.
Allegations of conflicts of interest
Criticism was leveled at Donald Trump’s personal ambitions during this visit. The American president was accused of conflating the interests of U.S. foreign policy with those of his family and allies. A potential conflict of interest between Donald Trump and Qatar was denounced following the announcement that the president had received, as a gift, a Boeing 747-8 Jumbo offered by the Qatari royal family. The aircraft, intended to replace Air Force One, is reportedly something Trump reportedly wishes to keep after his term ends. Further criticism was directed at the president’s entourage, particularly Elon Musk, who was present during the visit and announced record-breaking deals for his companies. Neuralink, a neurotechnology firm developing brain implants, signed agreements with the Emirati Ministry of Health to conduct clinical trials in Abu Dhabi. Similarly, SpaceX partnered with Emirates Airlines to offer satellite-based internet connectivity on the airline’s flights. The American billionaire also took part in official meetings between U.S. and Saudi delegations.
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