President Donald Trump has conveyed a clear message to Saudi Arabia: when it comes to business, the US won’t get involved in your issues.
During his initial overseas trip of his second term, Trump lauded Saudi leaders for their push towards modernization, mentioning that countries like Iran, Lebanon, and Syria have chances for a brighter future. He remarked that the Middle East should be “defined by commerce, not chaos.”
Highlighting his own agenda at a Magazine base, Trump dismissed the idea of nation-building and the emphasis on human rights, which other US presidents had upheld. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed strong affection for Trump, saying, “I like him so much—I love him too much.”
Trump’s speech on Tuesday clarified his worldview, which he began to outline during his first term. He reiterated his campaign promise to end “eternal wars,” referencing long-standing conflicts like those in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“The so-called nation builders destroyed far more than they created, intervening without understanding complex societies,” he stated. “Many recent American leaders have assumed it’s our role to judge foreign leaders and use our policies to address their wrongdoings.”
His approach, including his close relationship with leaders like Salvador’s Naive Buquere, shocked observers during his first term and seemed to align with previous political movements.
The speech underscored how Trump has shifted the conventional American stance. He has downplayed the issue of rights in countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Syria, while criticizing traditional allies for their treatment of far-right groups and engaging with controversial partners like white Africans from South Africa.
Stephen Pumper from the International Crisis Group pointed out that Trump doesn’t merely pay lip service to ideals; he outright dismisses them.
Past administrations have criticized the poor human rights records of Saudi Arabia and similar nations. Even former President Joe Biden had initially labeled bin Salman a “pariah,” following the killing of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul. However, Biden later shifted away from framing global politics as a battle between democracy and dictatorship.
Trump’s administration made strides in rethinking foreign aid, downgrading offices that focus on democracy and human rights.
Tommy Piggott, a spokesperson for the State Department, defended Trump’s approach, stating he prioritizes peacemaking and putting Americans first. “Our foreign policy is geared towards creating opportunities that align with our common interests,” he said.
In Saudi Arabia, Trump emphasized the leadership’s modernization efforts, pointing out the construction of one of the world’s tallest buildings in Jeddah compared to Iran’s economic struggles.
He signaled a willingness to lift sanctions against Syria as President Bashar al-Assad transitions power, stating he was set to meet with new leader Ahmed al-Sharraa. This move received positive reactions from some Democrats.
Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire remarked, “There’s a real opportunity in Syria. We must keep pushing these nations forward, especially as we try to counter Iran and Russia.”
Ultimately, Trump sent a decisive message to other Middle Eastern countries: if they collaborate with the US on trade and investment, a positive future awaits, and their past actions won’t be held against them. The White House announced a $600 billion investment commitment from Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.
“I am prepared to resolve past conflicts and forge new partnerships for a more stable future, even if we have significant differences,” Trump said.
