Trump Begins Gulf Tour for Economic, Security Talks Amid Regional Tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump is undertaking a four-day Middle East tour focusing on high-dollar economic investments and business partnerships with Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. The visit, which marks his first official trip to the region since retaking office, centers on arms deals potentially exceeding $100 billion, artificial intelligence, energy cooperation, and regional security, while notably excluding Israel from the itinerary. Gulf leaders, particularly Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, have pledged massive investments in U.S. firms, with figures ranging from $600 billion to $1 trillion, which Trump aims to secure during the trip. The tour coincides with ongoing regional instability, including Israel's war in Gaza and Iran's nuclear ambitions, though the administration emphasizes economic objectives over security issues. Parallel to Trump’s visit, a Saudi-U.S. investment forum will convene top U.S. business executives, and the Trump family’s business ventures in the Gulf—including luxury real estate and cryptocurrency projects—underscore the intertwining of political and commercial interests. Despite White House denials, analysts suggest Gulf governments view the Trump brand as a channel to foster goodwill with the administration amid complex geopolitical dynamics.