Latest news with #US-Gulf
Observer
22-05-2025
- Politics
- Observer
A reflection on Trump's tour and Arab Summit
Last week two parallel scenes were seen in the shifting political landscape of the Middle East. On one side, US President Donald Trump toured three Gulf states, emerging with massive investment, industrial, and defence agreements reportedly worth trillions of dollars - described by some as 'historic.' On the other, an Arab Summit was held in Baghdad to reaffirm long-standing positions on the Palestinian cause, though it failed to move beyond rhetorical declarations into any concrete response to the atrocities unfolding in Gaza. Meanwhile, the massacre in Gaza continued unabated - on a scale that even Israel's traditional backers in the West struggled to defend. Entire neighbourhoods have been flattened, famine is deepening, and medical aid is practically non-existent. Despite this humanitarian catastrophe, Gaza found no mention in Trump's transactional itinerary -neither in the deals nor on the diplomatic margins. There wasn't even a symbolic statement of concern. This silence alone illustrates where the Palestinian cause stands, even in the very forums most closely tied to the region's future. The prioritisation of deals over diplomacy is hardly novel in American foreign policy, but under Trump it has taken on an overt bluntness. His current approach fuses politics and profit with unapologetic clarity. His Gulf tour resulted in sweeping contracts covering everything from energy to artificial intelligence and missile systems - casting the US-Gulf relationship in unmistakably commercial terms, what could be called 'political capitalism.' From a strategic viewpoint, this framework reproduces an old formula: security guarantees in exchange for capital and influence. But behind its polished facade lies a troubling imbalance. While Washington secures economic and technological leverage, regional actors appear increasingly bound to the dictates of an external security architecture - one that turns a blind eye to war crimes when convenient. In this context, even genocide in Gaza elicits no meaningful response. The Arab Summit in Baghdad, meanwhile, was meant to embody Arab unity during a time of extreme urgency. Yet its final statement was little more than a repetition of familiar slogans - calling for international action, support for Palestinian rights, and mere condemnations. No concrete measures were offered. No diplomatic initiative was announced. No collective financial commitment was made. In effect, the summit failed to offer even the most basic response to the systematic destruction of Gaza - a catastrophe widely described by human rights groups as genocide. This failure speaks not only of the emptiness of the summit's communique but to a deeper paralysis within the Arab political order. Chronic divisions, misaligned priorities, and weak collective resolve have reduced such gatherings to ceremonial displays rather than mechanisms of action. And while time is of the essence, and Gaza's crisis worsens by the hour, Arab diplomacy remains suspended in abstractions. On the ground in Gaza, death continues at an unbearable pace. Bombardments do not cease. Starvation grows. Clean water and medicine have disappeared. Yet the Israeli campaign shows no defined political objective - only the cold efficiency of annihilation. Every aspect of Palestinian life has been rendered a 'security threat' - including infants buried beneath the rubble of maternity wards. Perhaps most disturbing is the near-total absence of international deterrence. The global community is distracted. Human rights organisations lack real enforcement tools. The International Criminal Court stands paralysed by geopolitics and vetoes. Even the principles that underpinned modern democracy - dignity, liberty, and the sanctity of life - appear hollow when the victim is a Palestinian. The sight of fathers gathering the limbs of their children in plastic bags has become both a symbol of tragedy and a searing indictment of international hypocrisy. Unless a serious reckoning takes place - one that asks what purpose these summits and multi-billion-dollar deals serve if they cannot acknowledge Gaza - the gap between Arab governments and their people will grow wider. How can states proclaim a commitment to justice while refusing to leverage their political and economic clout to halt a genocide? How can they speak of 'shared values' while children die of hunger under the ruins of their homes? To abandon the Palestinian cause is not merely a moral failure - it is a strategic error. As the political vacuum grows, it will inevitably be filled with more radical voices and unpredictable consequences. Every deal inked without a moral clause deepens complicity. Every summit that fails to act feeds the impression that Arab diplomacy has become disconnected from both its people and its principles. What last week's events have laid bare is a region reordering its priorities in ways that defy its own ethical charter. While billions are committed to building the industries of the future, Gaza's children are left to die unacknowledged. If there is one truth to take from this moment, it is that genuine regional stability cannot be built upon the graves of its people. No prosperity worth having can be founded on rubble soaked in blood. (Translated by Badr al Dhafari and the original version of the article appeared in Arabic in Oman newspaper's print version on May 18)
Hindustan Times
20-05-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Trump's high stakes tri-nation Gulf visit and its outcomes
When the mighty contestants of geopolitical rivalry are looking at the Gulf for its strategic influence, lightning-fast transition, and high-rise ambition, President Donald Trump's tri-nation state visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates from May 13-16 marked a turning point in US-Gulf relations. Far more than a diplomatic tour, this four-day-long visit shaped the destinies of several nations—beyond the power troika—in the Gulf. And answered several questions, elicited euphoria. Embarking on a meticulously goal-driven State visit amid worldwide high tension of wars and tariffs, President Donald Trump was met with extraordinary displays of ceremony and hospitality at every juncture. In Saudi Arabia, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman greeted him with regal grandeur—a royal purple carpet, the blare of trumpets, and a 21-gun salute. In Doha, the presidential motorcade was escorted by a fleet of striking red Tesla cybertrucks, culminating in a reception featuring mounted camels and Arabian horses, emblematic of Qatari tradition. Upon reaching Abu Dhabi, Trump was welcomed with rhythmic drum performances, children waving American and Emirati flags, and teenage girls performing the traditional Gulf hair-toss dance—Al Ayyala. At the Fifth GCC-US Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia pledged its full support for the ongoing US-Iran nuclear negotiations and voiced optimism that the talks would yield positive results contributing to regional stability. It's believed that Washington has offered a new nuclear proposal to Iran during the fourth round of talks in Muscat on May 11, and there are high chances of the success of the back-channel diplomacy. Saudi Arabia is on a mission to revolutionise both public sector services and private enterprises through cloud-based, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven innovation. This ambitious vision is supported by substantial national investments and landmark initiatives, positioning the Kingdom as a rising global technology leader. uring President Trump's State visit, Saudi Arabia agreed to $600 billion in investments, though some of the projects listed were already in the works. An additional 145 deals worth more than $300 billion were reportedly signed at an adjacent investor conference attended by several US billionaires and prominent business executives. A $142 billion agreement for the Saudis to buy military equipment and services from more than a dozen US defence firms is included in the agreement Trump signed, the White House said. The $600 billion investment also includes $20 billion from Saudi firm DataVolt for AI data centres and energy infrastructure in the US, and $80 billion in technologies in both countries from Google, DataVolt, Oracle, Salesforce, AMD, and Uber. More than $2 billion in work by American firms in Saudi infrastructure projects, including King Salman International Airport and the Qiddiya City entertainment complex, was also part of the agreement. The US is trying to maximise its presence—when Chinese tech and cloud companies are vying in West Asia. Saudi Arabia and China's Huawei inked an MoU in 2022 to develop cloud computing and high-tech infrastructure in Saudi. Saudi Arabia will be using Elon Musk's Starlink satellite services for aviation and maritime shipping. Saudi-firm Humain will acquire 18,000 AI chips from Nvidia, in addition to the company's deals with Global AI, Cisco, and Amazon for several high-impact AI services. The US-based AMD has unveiled a $10 billion partnership with Saudi Arabia to supply chips and software for AI data centres. During his visit, the US and Qatar signed an agreement for investments between the two countries worth more than $243.5 billion, with plans to increase this amount to $1.2 trillion in the future. As part of the agreement, Qatar will pour $10 billion into a US military facility and purchase $42 billion in weapons from the US. One of the largest commercial deals made in Doha includes Qatar Airways purchasing 210 Boeing jets valued at $96 billion. Additionally, Al Rabban Capital of Qatar partnered with the Quantinuum computing company to invest $1 billion in quantum technology and workforce development in the US. The agreement also covers several defence-related deals, such as a $1 billion contract for drone defense technology from Raytheon RTX and a $2 billion agreement for remotely piloted aircraft from General Atomics. Qatar is one of the most significant US strategic partners outside the NATO fraternity. Al Udeid Air Base, also known as Abu Nakhla Airport, is a strategically significant military facility located west of Doha in Al Wakra. The base hosts a wide array of coalition forces and military assets, making it a central hub for international defense cooperation in the region. The base features the longest air landing strip in the Gulf region. In his UAE visit too, Trump made a personalisation of diplomacy. While in the UAE, Trump paid obeisance to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Among the big deals made, the agreement includes a $14.5 billion commitment from Etihad Airways to purchase 28 Boeing 787 and 777X aircraft equipped with GE engines. Emirates Global Aluminium is all set to pump $4 billion into an aluminum project in Oklahoma. The Emirates is passionate about AI and innovation-driven initiatives. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who serves as chairman of the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC), is dedicated to establishing his nation as a global leader in AI. The US and the UAE announced plans to build the largest AI data centre outside the US, in Abu Dhabi. The Emirati firm G42 will construct the facility, which will cover 10 square miles and have a 5-gigawatt capacity, according to the US department of commerce. China is gaining a prominent position in the Middle East and African region via the Middle East corridor. The Middle East serves as a strategic geopolitical corridor connecting East Asia with Europe and Africa. Beijing is developing ports, logistics corridors, and several other facilities across the Gulf region, enhancing its influence over critical maritime and overland trade routes. In the whirlwind visit, President Trump made his stance on Syria very clear. Surprising the world, President Trump shook hand and held meeting with interim Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, who was once a designated terrorist. Saudi Arabia has taken a constructive role behind the new equation of US and Syria. The US no longer wants another adversary in the region who may place Washington in an uncomfortable position. For the obvious reason, he doesn't want Russia, China, or Iran to exercise influence in Syria. China is gaining a prominent position in West Asia and Africa via the Middle East corridor. The Middle East serves as a strategic geopolitical corridor connecting East Asia with Europe and Africa. Beijing is developing ports, logistics corridors, and several other facilities across the Gulf region, enhancing its influence over critical maritime and overland trade routes. The projects are bringing continents closer, elevating Beijing's stature. Trump's Gulf tour, from mosques to military deals, redefined the alliances and nature of dealing with the region. This article is authored by Ayanangsha Maitra, journalist and fellow with Centre for Geoeconomics for the Global South, UAE.
Arabian Post
17-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
UAE to Boost US Energy Investments to $440 Billion
The United Arab Emirates has committed to increasing its energy sector investments in the United States to $440 billion over the next decade, a significant expansion from the current $70 billion. This strategic move was announced by Sultan Al Jaber, chief executive of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company , during a high-profile meeting with US President Donald Trump amid his Gulf tour aimed at fostering major business deals. This ambitious escalation underscores the UAE's commitment to strengthening economic ties with the United States, especially in the energy domain, where both countries hold considerable stakes. The announcement signals not only a substantial inflow of capital from the UAE to US energy ventures but also a reciprocal investment interest by American energy companies in the UAE market, reflecting a deeper collaboration between the two nations' energy sectors. The UAE's decision to nearly sextuple its investment portfolio in the US comes at a time when global energy markets are experiencing shifts driven by technological advancements, evolving policies on climate change, and a gradual transition toward cleaner energy sources. By committing $440 billion by 2035, the UAE positions itself as a major player in shaping the future of energy in one of the world's largest markets. Sultan Al Jaber emphasised that this boost in investment is aligned with both countries' long-term energy strategies. The UAE has been actively diversifying its energy mix, investing in renewables such as solar and nuclear power, while maintaining its leading position in oil and gas production. The increased US investments are expected to fund a wide range of projects including conventional oil and gas infrastructure, liquefied natural gas facilities, and renewable energy developments. American energy firms, responding to this invitation, have expressed growing interest in expanding their footprint within the UAE. The Gulf state's evolving energy landscape, with its focus on innovation and sustainability, presents attractive opportunities for US companies specialising in advanced extraction techniques, energy efficiency, and clean technology. This bilateral investment synergy is expected to foster technology transfer and strengthen supply chains between the two regions. See also Azizi Unveils $20 Billion Milan-Inspired Mega Development in Dubai President Trump's visit to the Gulf has been marked by several landmark agreements involving Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. The $440 billion UAE energy investment plan stands out as one of the most significant economic commitments, reflecting the strategic importance of energy cooperation in US-Gulf relations. The UAE's energy investment scale dwarfs previous commitments, illustrating the country's growing confidence in the US market's stability and growth prospects. The deal is set against a backdrop of geopolitical considerations, with the UAE seeking to reinforce alliances and economic partnerships amid regional tensions. Energy cooperation remains a cornerstone of this approach, given the sector's central role in the Gulf economies and global markets. By deepening investments in the US, the UAE aims to hedge against regional uncertainties while securing stable, long-term returns. Analysts point out that the UAE's approach aligns with broader trends in the Gulf's energy diplomacy, which increasingly focuses on leveraging financial power and technological innovation to build global partnerships. This contrasts with earlier eras when oil exports were the primary focus, signalling a shift toward integrated energy ecosystems that include renewables, petrochemicals, and energy services. The scale of the planned investment also reflects confidence in the US energy sector's resilience, particularly in natural gas and LNG markets. The US has emerged as a leading LNG exporter, and the UAE's involvement could support expansion of export infrastructure and market access. Furthermore, investment in renewables aligns with the US administration's goals to modernise the energy grid and increase clean energy production. Within the UAE, this deal enhances ADNOC's global strategy to transform from a conventional oil company into a diversified energy and petrochemical powerhouse. Sultan Al Jaber has championed ADNOC's vision of growth through strategic international partnerships and increased capital mobilisation, making the US investment pledge a key milestone in that vision. The partnership also comes as the UAE pushes forward with its nuclear energy programme, positioning the country as a leader in the region's clean energy transition. Cooperation with US firms could accelerate nuclear technology development, regulatory frameworks, and operational expertise, areas where the US holds significant experience. This expansive investment plan aligns with wider economic diversification goals under the UAE's Vision 2030 and Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, which prioritise sustainable growth beyond hydrocarbons. The emphasis on energy innovation, cross-border investments, and bilateral economic ties demonstrates how energy strategy is interwoven with broader national economic and diplomatic ambitions. Market observers highlight that the UAE's increased US investments may prompt competitive responses from other Gulf states, potentially leading to a wave of energy-sector capital flows into the US. This could reshape regional investment patterns and global energy markets, as Gulf countries seek to assert their influence through financial diplomacy. Despite the optimism surrounding this partnership, challenges remain. Energy markets face volatility due to global economic uncertainties, technological disruptions, and regulatory shifts aimed at addressing climate change. Successful implementation of such a large-scale investment plan will require navigating complex geopolitical risks and evolving market dynamics.
Hindustan Times
15-05-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Trump's another speechless moment? Hair-flipping dance goes viral as POTUS arrives in UAE
President Trump lands in Abu Dhabi to a dazzling Emirati Al-Ayyala dance, capping a whirlwind Gulf tour packed with billion-dollar deals and rare cultural honors. After sealing $1.2 trillion in agreements with Qatar, Trump meets UAE's Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed for high-stakes talks. From traditional welcomes to record-breaking business, see how Trump's Middle East visit is reshaping US-Gulf ties and global power.
Egypt Today
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Egypt Today
Hamas warns delay in Gaza aid delivery after Alexander's release to hamper prisoner swap talks
CAIRO – 15 May 2025: Hamas said it expected humanitarian aid to enter Gaza immediately, based on understandings reached with the United States and communicated to mediators. The group warned that a delay in this step could hinder a prisoner exchange deal. In a statement on Telegram, Hamas expressed its anticipation of a call for a permanent ceasefire and comprehensive negotiations on all issues aimed at achieving regional security and stability in line with these understandings. The statement mentioned the recent release of Israeli-US soldier Edan Alexander, saying it was 'part of the Islamic resistance movement's commitment to alleviating the suffering of our people by halting the aggression and opening the crossings for humanitarian aid deliveries.' 'However, failure to implement these steps, especially the entry of humanitarian aid, will cast a negative shadow over any efforts to finalize negotiations on the prisoner exchange process.' US President Donald Trump said his administration 'shares the hope of a future of safety and dignity for the Palestinian people,' as he addressed the US-Gulf summit, held in Riyadh on Wednesday#Egypt #Africa #MENAhttps:// — Egypt Today Magazine (@EgyptTodayMag) May 14, 2025 Alexander's release marked a significant day for both the US and Israel, following direct talks between Hamas and the US. He was reunited with his family on Monday after spending 583 days in captivity since October 7, 2023. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a newly formed US-backed aid group, announced today that it will begin aid deliveries to Gaza by the end of May, stating that Israel has agreed to resume aid after a blockade lasting over two months, according to media reports. The GHF asserted that Tel Aviv has approved 'the flow of transitional aid into Gaza under existing mechanisms' until the construction of Safe Distribution Sites (SDSs) is completed, although this will take time. The UN has shown reluctance to cooperate with the newly formed charity. UN aid chief Tom Fletcher criticized the plan as a 'fig leaf for further violence and displacement' of Palestinians in Gaza. Concerns have also been raised by Amnesty International regarding the legality of the foundation's operations and its potential complicity in Israel's occupation. According to State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, American plans aim to deliver food aid to Gaza's eligible populations without allowing it to fall into the hands of Hamas. Since early March, Israel has blocked humanitarian aid bound for Gaza and resumed military operations two weeks later, shattering a ceasefire that had facilitated the release of dozens of captives and the entry of thousands of aid trucks. The Israeli war in Gaza has claimed the lives of more than 52,000 Palestinians since October 7, 2023, many of them women and children.
