by During a major address at the Gulf Cooperation Council in Riyadh, former U.S. President Donald Trump outlined his vision for the Middle East. Trump expressed interest in striking a new deal with Iran and expanding the Abraham Accords by including additional Arab nations in the historic peace agreement.
What Happened
On May 14, 2025, Donald Trump delivered a speech at the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Leaders’ Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
His remarks focused on future peace efforts in the Middle East, including potential diplomacy with Iran and the expansion of the Abraham Accords.
Key Details
Trump emphasized a willingness to negotiate with Iran under strict conditions.
“I want to make a deal with Iran,” he said. “But they must stop sponsoring terror, halt proxy wars, and permanently end their nuclear ambitions.”
He praised the UAE and Bahrain for joining the Abraham Accords in 2020 and reaffirmed his commitment to expanding the agreement to more countries.
“In the future, we’ll continue that progress by adding more countries to the Abraham Accords,” Trump said.
Trump also addressed regional developments, including Lebanon and Syria.
- Sanctions on Syria are being lifted to normalize relations.
- Lebanon, he said, now has “a new chance” for peace and recovery if it distances itself from Hezbollah.
Reactions or Statements
Trump’s visit included a meeting with Syria’s Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
In his speech, Trump urged regional cooperation to promote peace and commerce across the Middle East.
“We’re going to forge a Middle East that will be a thriving commercial, diplomatic, and cultural crossroads at the geographic center of the world,” he said.
Investigation or What’s Next
The potential deal with Iran remains uncertain, contingent on Iran’s compliance with U.S. demands.
Further diplomatic engagement is expected as Trump’s Middle East tour continues.
Expansion of the Abraham Accords may hinge on future discussions with nations not yet party to the agreement.
FAQs
What are the Abraham Accords?
The Abraham Accords are a series of agreements normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab nations, brokered by the U.S. in 2020.
What conditions did Trump set for a deal with Iran?
Iran must stop sponsoring terrorism, end proxy wars, and verifiably abandon its pursuit of nuclear weapons.
Why were sanctions on Syria lifted?
Trump’s administration announced the move to normalize relations and encourage political reforms in Syria.
What did Trump say about Lebanon?
He expressed hope that Lebanon’s new leadership could rebuild the country and reduce Hezbollah’s influence.
Will more countries join the Abraham Accords?
Trump suggested that more nations will be invited to join, though no specific countries were named.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Donald Trump’s 2025 visit to Saudi Arabia marks a renewed push for regional diplomacy in the Middle East.
His emphasis on making a deal with Iran and expanding the Abraham Accords signals ongoing U.S. engagement in fostering peace and economic cooperation in the region.
