Trump’s Middle East Visit Reshapes Regional Dynamics: Winners and Losers

President Donald Trump's recent tour of the Middle East has significantly altered the region's geopolitical landscape, producing clear winners and losers among key players.

Winners

Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE

Trump's visit fortified ties with Gulf states, particularly Saudi Arabia, where he secured a historic $142 billion arms deal and encouraged further investments into the U.S. economy. In Qatar, Trump received a ceremonial welcome, with the Emir pledging significant U.S. investments and gifting a luxury Boeing 747-8, which Trump clarified was a national gift for military use.

Syria

In a landmark move, Trump lifted U.S. sanctions on Syria following a meeting with its new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former rebel commander who overthrew Bashar al-Assad in 2024. This decision paves the way for Syria's reconstruction and reintegration into regional politics, with support from Gulf states.

Turkey and Jordan

Turkey's early re-establishment of diplomatic relations with post-Assad Syria positions it as a key influencer in the region's future. Jordan, participating in regional discussions, stands to benefit from increased economic cooperation and stability efforts.

Losers

Iran

Trump reinstated the "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, intensifying economic sanctions and aiming to curb its nuclear ambitions and regional influence. This has led to significant economic challenges within Iran, including currency depreciation and political instability.

Iraq

Iraq's position weakened as U.S. focus shifted towards Gulf states and Syria, diminishing Baghdad's influence in regional affairs. Efforts to curb the power of Iran-backed Shiite militias in Iraq further complicate its internal dynamics.

Israel

Israel found itself sidelined during Trump's visit, with no official meetings reported. Trump's engagement with Syria and the lifting of sanctions raised concerns in Israel about shifting U.S. alliances. Additionally, Trump's proposal for a "Middle East Riviera" in Gaza, involving the displacement of Palestinians, was met with regional opposition and could strain Israel's relations with neighboring Arab countries.

Trump's Middle East tour underscores a transactional approach to diplomacy, emphasizing economic deals and shifting alliances. While Gulf states and Syria emerge as beneficiaries, traditional U.S. allies like Israel and Iraq face new challenges in a rapidly evolving regional order.