President Trump's Gulf Tour: Key Developments and Diplomatic Undertakings

President Trump concluded a significant three-nation tour in the Middle East with a meeting alongside business leaders in Abu Dhabi on Friday. This tour, distinguished by ceremonious receptions and grand displays, also resulted in the announcement of business deals with affluent Gulf nations. As planned by the White House, Mr. Trump was to visit an interfaith center in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, before returning to the United States. During this first extensive international expedition of his second term, he had previously visited Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Here are some of the notable developments from his trip:

Syria Meeting: Mr. Trump engaged in an extraordinary discussion with Syria’s newly appointed president, Ahmed al-Shara, reversing the longstanding U.S. policy stance toward both the country and Mr. Shara, an ex-militant who previously led an Al Qaeda faction. Additionally, a day prior, Mr. Trump declared his intent to lift U.S. sanctions on Syria, potentially offering a crucial economic reprieve to the nation ravaged by years of civil unrest.

Deals Galore: According to the White House, Mr. Trump’s visit secured deals totaling hundreds of billions of dollars for American companies, including a substantial order from Qatar for Boeing passenger aircraft. However, specific details remain scarce, and some agreements were already in motion prior to the trip.

Iran Negotiations: Mr. Trump indicated progress in nuclear discussions with Iran, steadfastly asserting that the United States would prevent Tehran from developing a nuclear arsenal. He highlighted that his administration was deeply engaged in negotiations aimed at achieving long-term peace.

Gaza Conflict: Despite bypassing Israel, America’s principal regional ally, and largely avoiding the conflict in Gaza, Mr. Trump, on Friday, expressed a desire to see the situation resolved. Significantly, he recognized the ordeal civilians are enduring, stating, “There’s a lot of people starving, a lot of bad things going on.”

Ukraine Talks: Uncertainty surrounded Mr. Trump’s potential visit to Turkey to support cease-fire discussions between Russia and Ukraine, but he ultimately chose not to attend. Although Russian and Ukrainian delegates, along with senior Trump administration officials, gathered in Istanbul, the absence of Russian President Vladimir V. Putin dampened hopes for meaningful progress.