Vengeful at Home, Trump Takes His Forgiving Side on Tour

President Donald Trump’s recent Middle East tour has marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, emphasizing economic partnerships and a pragmatic approach to regional conflicts. During his visit to Saudi Arabia, Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed a strategic economic partnership agreement, aiming to bolster investments and defense collaborations between the two nations. This agreement includes a $400 billion letter of intent to enhance defense capabilities and various memorandums of understanding covering energy resources, disease cooperation, and cultural exchanges. (en.wikipedia.org)

In Qatar, Trump secured a monumental deal with Qatar Airways, which agreed to purchase up to 210 Boeing jets, marking the largest order in Boeing’s history. This deal underscores the strengthening economic ties between the U.S. and Qatar, with additional agreements in defense and technology sectors. (en.wikipedia.org)

During his visit to the United Arab Emirates, Trump toured the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and attended a state dinner at Qasr Al Watan palace. He praised UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and reaffirmed strong U.S.-UAE ties. (apnews.com)

In a notable policy shift, Trump announced plans to lift longstanding U.S. sanctions on Syria, imposed since 1979 and intensified during the Syrian Civil War. This decision aims to reintegrate Syria into the global economy and geopolitics, with the expectation that Syria will normalize ties with Israel by signing the Abraham Accords and cooperate in combating ISIS and foreign terrorism. (time.com)

Trump also addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, stating that progress on a peace deal would not occur until he meets directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This approach underscores his commitment to direct diplomacy in resolving international conflicts. (ft.com)

These developments highlight a strategic shift in U.S. foreign policy, focusing on economic partnerships and direct engagement with regional leaders to address longstanding conflicts and promote stability in the Middle East.