Donald Trump Arrives in Saudi Arabia to Begin Gulf Tour

U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Tuesday, in what the White House earlier described as a “historic return to the Middle East.”
He was received at King Khalid International Airport by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with Royal Saudi Air Force F-15s escorting Air Force One upon arrival.
Trump is accompanied by Secretary of State, National Security Adviser Marco Rubio, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for a four-day tour across the Gulf.
The visit is expected to result in a number of economic and trade agreements and broader discussions outlining the Trump administration’s approach to the Middle East. Saudi Arabia has already pledged $600 billion in U.S. investments, but Trump says he will push for $1 trillion.
According to U.S. officials, key issues under discussion also include regional security, peace in Gaza, and stability in Yemen.
Trump is expected to visit Qatar on Wednesday and the United Arab Emirates on Thursday, aiming to deepen ties with Gulf nations.
the U.S. State Department emphasized that the trip reflects “the importance the United States places on its partnerships in the Middle East.”
On Friday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the visit aims to “re-emphasize his [U.S. President Donald] continued vision for a proud, prosperous, and successful Middle East,” adding that it “ultimately highlights how we stand on the brink of the golden age for both America and the Middle East.”
Earlier this month, President Trump hinted at a 'very big announcement,' calling it 'really positive' for his Middle East tour. While details remain unclear, U.S. officials cited by the Associated Press say one announcement could be the U.S. formally adopting the term “Arabian Gulf.” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the potential move, calling it “a sign of hostility toward Iran and its people.” Responding to the controversy, Leavitt said Trump “hasn’t made a quite definitive decision on that yet.”
13/05/2025