Trump's First 100 Days Reshape Middle East Policy, Spark Controversy

During Donald Trump's first 100 days in office, his administration enacted a series of aggressive and often unpredictable policies that significantly impacted the Middle East. These included freezing foreign aid to key partners such as Egypt and Jordan, imposing tariffs on regional countries including Israel, and endorsing Israel's settlement expansions while moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem. Trump also facilitated arms deals with Israel, brokered a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that led to the release of hostages, and pursued direct negotiations with both Hamas and Iran, at times straining U.S.-Israel relations. Critics argue that these actions emboldened Israel's military operations, exacerbated humanitarian crises in Gaza and Lebanon, and undermined international norms, while economic ties with Gulf states were shaped by coercive tactics rather than genuine partnership. Meanwhile, the administration's withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and reimposition of sanctions escalated regional tensions. Trump's approach has been described as prioritizing short-term American interests and deal-making, leading to both praise for bold initiatives and criticism for deepening instability.