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US President Donald Trump will arrive in Saudi Arabia for an important meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, according to multiple Palestinian sources. The visit, part of a wider tour of the Middle East, is aimed at attracting investment from the Gulf states, promoting ceasefire talks in the Gaza Strip, and countering Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
The meeting, reported by The Jerusalem Post, underscores Trump’s renewed focus on diplomacy in the Middle East, where he is seeking to use economic and geopolitical partnerships to stabilise the region. Trump will be accompanied by a number of key figures, including Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant and Commerce Secretary Howard Luthnick.
Strategic objectives
Trump’s agenda includes attracting significant investment from the Gulf states to strengthen economic ties with the US, particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors. The visit is also aimed at advancing ceasefire negotiations in Gaza, where the ongoing conflict is a matter of international concern. A parallel goal is to counter Iran’s nuclear programme, which remains a contentious issue. In Doha, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told state media that Tehran would not give up its “nuclear rights”, stressing that peaceful enrichment of uranium is not up for discussion, Reuters reported.
Regional implications
The participation of Abbas and al-Shara’a indicates a desire to take into account Palestinian and Syrian perspectives in the broader regional context. The meeting could open the way to a renewed dialogue on Palestinian statehood and post-war reconstruction in Syria, although challenges remain due to the complex dynamics between the parties.
Diplomatic delegation
Trump’s delegation, which includes experienced diplomats and economic advisers, reflects the administration’s intention to combine economic incentives with strategic security goals. The presence of Special Envoy Witkoff underscores the focus on targeted diplomatic work, while Rubio and Bessant are likely to negotiate trade and sanctions.
As Trump embarks on this important tour, the outcome of these talks could change US relations with the Middle East and affect the trajectory of regional stability.
This article is based on reports by The Jerusalem Post and Reuters.
