Trump Begins Middle East Tour with Saudi Crown Prince Meeting

U.S. President Donald Trump began a four-day Middle East tour with a high-profile visit to Saudi Arabia, where he met warmly with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss a range of topics including U.S. investments, efforts to dismantle Iran's nuclear program, ending the war in Gaza, and stabilizing oil prices. The visit featured significant ceremonial elements such as an F-15 escort for Air Force One, traditional coffee ceremonies, and formal dinners, underscoring the close and friendly relations between the two leaders. Trump was accompanied by key business leaders and U.S. officials, with a focus on securing more than $1 trillion in investments from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, including Saudi Arabia's prior commitment of $600 billion to the U.S. economy. The trip also includes stops in Qatar and the UAE, where additional investment deals worth hundreds of billions are expected. Trump hinted at the possibility of visiting Turkey for Ukraine-Russia peace talks, emphasizing the diplomatic and business dual nature of his Middle East agenda. The visit signals a renewed strategic partnership between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, with Mohammed bin Salman playing a key role in regional diplomacy alongside the U.S.