Bridging the divide: Trump’s vision for a new Middle East

The recent diplomatic maneuvers led by US President Donald Trump during his visit to Saudi Arabia and other nations in the Arabian Gulf represent a pivotal shift from the foreign policy frameworks established by his predecessors.

In an era marked by escalating conflicts and instability reminiscent of the pre-Second World War landscape, the Middle East has emerged as a critical stage on which to redefine global relations. Its abundant energy resources, financial power, and strategic location position it as a potential pivot point for international collaboration.

In a week characterized by what some have referred to as diplomatic improvisation, Trump’s engagement with Saudi Arabia highlights the sense of urgency in adapting to an evolving geopolitical landscape. This partnership underscores the potential of Gulf states as essential strategic allies of the US, providing not only vast natural resources such as oil, but also a critical geographical advantage that enhances global trade and connectivity. These intricate dynamics reveal the complex interplay of modern geopolitics and shifting power structures on the global stage.

During his address in Saudi Arabia, Trump boldly proclaimed an end to America’s longstanding practice of nation-building and military intervention, asserting that the US would no longer impose its values on other nations. This shift resonates with sentiments shared by many in the region, reflecting a growing frustration with the consequences of American interventionism.

“In the end, the so-called nation-builders wrecked far more nations than they built,” he told an investment conference in Riyadh. While this critique captures a crucial sentiment, it also invites scrutiny regarding the historical ramifications of US foreign policy over the past seven decades.

Through Trump’s lens, the Middle East is viewed as a landscape ripe for opportunity. Influenced by a circle of affluent advisers and unconventional think tanks, his vision intertwines with significant military interests and the region’s natural resources. Embracing the “Make America Great Again” mantra, Trump views engagement with the Middle East not only as a chance to redefine America’s global role but also as a departure from traditional diplomatic practices that have typically prioritized Israel as a key ally.

However, it is essential to recognize the multifaceted dynamics that characterize the Middle East. American political commentator and New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman’s assertion that “this Israeli government is not our ally” underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of the region’s complexities.

Trump appears to acknowledge that shifting demographics and evolving political landscapes could significantly impact American strategic objectives. The statement by the US ambassador to Israel that America acts in its own interests without seeking permission raises ethical concerns about the implications of American foreign policy in the region.

The Israeli occupation of Palestinian land starkly highlights these complexities, particularly in light of the recent violence in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s comments reveal a troubling strategy that risks further displacing Palestinians and exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis.

Such developments pose significant challenges to American interests, indicating a departure from traditional US support for Israeli policies, especially with regard to Syria, maritime routes in the Red Sea, and negotiations with Iran.

The establishment of a legitimate Palestinian state could serve as a linchpin for the transformation of regional relations. 

Dr. Turki Faisal Al-Rasheed

Amid these challenges, Trump’s agenda seeks to reshape American interests by balancing traditional energy needs with the evolving geopolitical landscape. His discussions emphasized the importance of securing safe maritime routes while addressing the concerns of Arab allies regarding broader American intentions. Partnerships with nations such as Saudi Arabia, centered around peaceful energy initiatives, aiming to foster economic collaboration and mutual political respect.

For these partnerships to flourish, however, a just and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian issue is paramount. The establishment of a legitimate Palestinian state could serve as a linchpin for the transformation of regional relations and the facilitation of Israel’s integration into a cohesive Middle East. Without acknowledgment of this necessity, agreements risk becoming mere formalities, burdened by distrust and dissatisfaction.

Trump’s aspirations extend beyond mere diplomacy; he positions himself as a potential peacemaker. While this ambition could earn him accolades, such as the Nobel Peace Prize, its realization hinges on fostering balanced partnerships throughout the region. Arab nations hold considerable strategic leverage that, if wisely utilized, could align with Trump’s broader vision. A unified Arab stance is critical for efforts to counter foreign interference and address extremist threats that could escalate tensions.

As we delve deeper into this complex situation, three prominent dynamics emerge. The first encompasses the promotion of conflict, often perpetuated by the US military-industrial complex, right-wing elements within the Israeli government, and various special interest groups entrenched in Washington. This cycle of violence, frequently driven by economic motivations, detracts from genuine peace efforts.

The second dynamic involves the rising influence of global powers such as China and Russia, which are increasingly inserting themselves into international relations, thereby reshaping traditional geopolitical alliances.

Finally, there is a compelling call for sustainable development and the common good, with Saudi Arabia aiming to lead by example through its ambitious Vision 2030 initiative, which seeks to diversify the national economy and lessen its dependency on oil.

Through this lens, Trump recognizes the potential of Saudi Arabia as a vital channel for dialogue with Russia. His administration sees the Kingdom’s role as a pivotal one in efforts to mitigate tensions and foster positive relations between Moscow and Washington. Given the ongoing crisis stemming from the war between Russia and Ukraine, Saudi diplomacy has demonstrated a sincere commitment to addressing global nuclear fears and the promotion of regional stability.

The Arabian Gulf and broader Middle East are not merely regions of contention; they represent opportunities for strategic partnerships. Over the past decade, Arab states have adeptly navigated their international relations, distancing themselves from partisan affiliations and asserting their agency in global affairs.

As the US faces a complex web of challenges, including a resilient military-industrial complex, economic sustainability pursuits and the emergence of new powers, it becomes clear that collaboration, rather than dominance, will be essential to achieve sustainable peace.

As Trump embarks on this diplomatic journey, addressing the foundational issues that resonate within the Arab world, in particular the Palestinian cause, is crucial. A profound call exists for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, coupled with an urgent need to confront the grim realities of Israeli violations.

The support of crisis profiteers for the interests of a few has perpetuated instability and conflict in the region. The current state of the Middle East reflects the consequences of historical missteps in US and wider Western foreign policies.

Ultimately, the nations of the Middle East aspire to stability and development, and are firmly opposed to cycles of violence. Achieving these objectives necessitates overcoming entrenched barriers and cultivating a dialogue-rich environment conducive to peace and prosperity.

By acknowledging and balancing the diverse aspirations of all stakeholders, Saudi-US relations stand poised to enter a new era, one that places an emphasis on cooperation and mutual benefit while effectively addressing historical grievances and shifting the focus from power struggles to shared ambitions for a better future.

Trump’s approach reflects a confluence of interests that offers a unique opportunity to formulate a politically astute strategy that recognizes the historical complexities of the Middle East. However, achieving a reciprocal balance is essential; without it, the persistent disconnect between American and Arab interests will hinder progress. Gulf leaders are increasingly cognizant of the futility of seeking agreements with the US, given past betrayals and the current geopolitical landscape.

As tensions persist, maintaining amicable relations with global powers such as Russia and China will be crucial to safeguarding energy markets and promoting economic growth. Lessons learned from previous American policies, particularly concerning oil-price manipulation, illuminate the dangers of misaligned interests. The solutions of one era often morph into the challenges of the next.

Thus a future-oriented approach must involve a careful calibration of alliances that serve the interests of both the US and Middle Eastern nations, ultimately striving for stability, peace, and mutual respect.

In navigating these new diplomatic frontiers there lies the potential for a more balanced and fruitful engagement with the Middle East, one that acknowledges the complexities of the region and affirms the dignity of all its peoples.

• Dr. Turki Faisal Al-Rasheed is an adjunct professor at the University of Arizona’s College of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences, in the Department of Biosystems Engineering. He is the author of “Agricultural Development Strategies: The Saudi Experience.” X: @TurkiFRasheed