U.S. President seeks deeper ties with Riyadh amid shared concerns over Iran and Gaza conflict
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – U.S. President Donald Trump began his four-day tour of the Middle East on Tuesday with a high-profile visit to Saudi Arabia, where he signed multiple bilateral agreements aimed at boosting defense, economic, and cultural ties between Washington and Riyadh.
Trump’s arrival in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, was marked by a display of ceremony and warmth from Saudi Arabia’s de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The visit signaled a strategic reset of U.S.-Saudi relations with a clear focus on dealmaking, even as longstanding regional tensions—particularly Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the ongoing war in Gaza—loomed in the background.
The American president touched down at King Khalid International Airport where Crown Prince Mohammed personally received him on the tarmac. The two leaders shared pleasantries and smiles before heading to a royal hall within the airport, where they were offered traditional Arabic coffee by attendants dressed in ceremonial attire complete with golden belts.
In a rare moment of candor before the cameras, Trump said of the Crown Prince, “I really believe we like each other a lot,” hinting at the close personal rapport they’ve developed—a relationship both leaders hope will translate into mutual political and economic gains.
Dozens of Strategic Agreements Signed
The centerpiece of the day’s events was the signing of more than a dozen agreements between the two nations, spanning military cooperation, judicial collaboration, cultural exchanges, and investment partnerships. According to senior U.S. officials, these agreements are part of a broader framework designed to reinforce bilateral trust and enhance geopolitical cooperation in the Middle East.
Among the signed deals was a military cooperation pact that would facilitate joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and access to U.S. technology. A separate memorandum was signed between both nations’ departments of justice to combat cross-border crime and enhance legal cooperation.
Cultural institutions from both countries also entered into partnerships aimed at promoting educational exchanges and joint heritage preservation programs.
In remarks following the signing, a White House official stated, “President Trump is committed to revitalizing America’s alliances. What you see today is the beginning of a new chapter in U.S.-Saudi relations—one based on action and economic opportunity.”
Massive Investment Announcements
While Tuesday’s initial agreements were substantial, even more significant economic announcements were reserved for the U.S.-Saudi Investment Conference later in the day. Prince Mohammed bin Salman has already pledged an estimated $600 billion in new Saudi investments into American industries including energy, technology, and infrastructure.
Speaking to reporters on his way to the conference, Trump praised the investment plan but nudged his host for even more.
“We’re very happy with the $600 billion—but $1 trillion would be better,” Trump said with a grin, adding, “There’s a lot of room for growth, and we want to create jobs, opportunities, and prosperity on both sides.”
The investment summit, held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center, brought together top U.S. business executives, Saudi officials, and investors from across the Gulf region. Analysts say the deals could reshape America’s economic footprint in the Middle East, particularly as Saudi Arabia pushes forward with its Vision 2030 diversification agenda.
Strategic Timing Amid Regional Turmoil
Trump’s visit comes at a delicate time in the Middle East. Tensions over Iran’s nuclear program continue to strain international diplomacy, while the conflict in Gaza remains an open wound in the region. Though not the focal point of Tuesday’s engagements, both leaders acknowledged these challenges during their closed-door bilateral meeting.
A senior Saudi official speaking anonymously said Iran’s growing influence in the region was a “shared concern” for both Riyadh and Washington. “We are in full agreement that Iran’s destabilizing activities must be checked, and we’re working on a roadmap for that,” the official added.
Gaza was also briefly discussed, with the leaders expressing hope for a peaceful resolution. Trump, however, is expected to address the issue more directly in his upcoming stops during the Middle East tour.
Renewed U.S.-Saudi Alignment
Tuesday’s engagements reflect a renewed alignment between the United States and Saudi Arabia, after a period of strained relations in recent years over human rights issues and the Saudi-led war in Yemen. Trump’s approach, which emphasizes strategic interests and economic partnerships, marks a return to traditional realpolitik in America’s Middle East policy.
For Saudi Arabia, the visit is a signal to the international community that the kingdom remains a key ally to Washington and a central player in the region. The Crown Prince’s investment pledges and willingness to expand diplomatic cooperation are viewed as part of a broader campaign to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s global image and diversify its economy.
A New Chapter in Bilateral Ties
Trump’s Middle East trip is being closely watched by allies and adversaries alike. The agreements signed on Tuesday may not only reshape U.S.-Saudi relations but also influence broader regional dynamics.
Political analysts note that the timing of this visit—early in Trump’s return to international diplomacy—reflects his administration’s prioritization of strong bilateral alliances over multilateral forums.
“This isn’t just about ink on paper,” said Dr. Amal Al-Sharif, a political analyst based in Riyadh. “It’s about resetting the tone of engagement. Trump and MBS are both strong-willed leaders who value action over rhetoric. That synergy could drive meaningful policy changes in the months ahead.”
Looking Ahead
As Trump continues his regional tour with upcoming stops expected in Israel and possibly Egypt, the momentum generated in Riyadh sets a high bar. The agreements signed in Saudi Arabia may become a cornerstone of the administration’s broader Middle East policy, balancing diplomacy with economic incentive.
Whether the promises materialize into long-term cooperation remains to be seen. But for now, both Washington and Riyadh appear to be betting that strong personal ties and shared strategic interests can overcome years of political turbulence.
“We like each other a lot,” Trump had said with a smile. In international diplomacy, such chemistry may count for more than ever.
