U.S. President Donald Trump reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to fostering a prosperous and peaceful Middle East, highlighting the vital role of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in advancing regional stability and development.
Speaking before GCC leaders and representatives during a summit in Riyadh, Trump lauded the Gulf nations, declaring, “You are admired by the world,” and noting that “the world looks with envy at the Gulf states,” which he said are blessed with “unbelievable opportunities,” reports Al-Rai daily.
He emphasized that the United States is keen to deepen its partnerships with Gulf nations and harness the region’s vast potential. Trump also sharply criticized the policies of his predecessor, Joe Biden, accusing him of turning his back on America’s traditional Gulf allies.
“Those days are over,” Trump said. “Now, we will always be together.”
The U.S. President also addressed ongoing negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program, stressing the need for Tehran to cease its support for terrorism and proxy wars in the region and to abandon its nuclear ambitions.
He criticized the previous U.S. administration for fueling instability by “empowering Iran and its proxies,” citing the transfer of billions of dollars and the neglect of key allies.
“We will not hesitate to stand by our allies and confront aggression and threats,” he declared. “We seek a deal with Iran but will never allow it to acquire a nuclear weapon.”
Trump also noted recent military operations targeting the Houthi militia in Yemen, stating that U.S. forces have struck over 1,100 Houthi positions in response to attacks on maritime vessels in the Red Sea.
Turning to Lebanon, Trump highlighted what he described as a historic opportunity to free the country from Hezbollah’s influence. He expressed support for the new Lebanese leadership’s efforts to establish an independent and sovereign state.
“Lebanon has a new opportunity with its newly elected president and prime minister,” he said.
In a significant shift, Trump announced that the United States would lift sanctions on Syria, describing it as a “great opportunity” for normalization of relations with the country’s new leadership. He confirmed that he met with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa in Riyadh earlier in the day and signaled the administration’s readiness to fully normalize ties with the new Syrian government.
Addressing the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, Trump reiterated U.S. support for the Palestinian people in their pursuit of a future marked by dignity and security.
He praised GCC leaders for their efforts in promoting regional stability and for their role in securing the release of detained dual national Aidan Alexander.
