President Donald Trump’s recent whirlwind trip to the Middle East showcased a mix of old habits and new approaches in his foreign policy agenda. Despite a focus on dealmaking and a streamlined agenda, challenges like Russia’s actions in Ukraine and ongoing conflicts in the region persisted. Trump emphasized a vision of a Middle East defined by commerce rather than chaos, advocating for technology over terrorism during his speeches in Saudi Arabia.

One of the key highlights was Trump’s decision to drop sanctions against Syria, signaling a significant shift in US foreign policy. His trip also touched on efforts to address the Israel-Hamas conflict and pursue a nuclear deal with Iran, although significant obstacles remain in both cases. Trump’s interactions with regional leaders, lavish displays of fanfare, and emphasis on personal relationships underscored the strategic importance of the visit.

Despite criticism and controversies, including personal attacks on political rivals and celebrities, Trump’s trip was seen as a potential foreign policy success by some observers. The involvement of his family business in the region raised questions about potential conflicts of interest. Overall, the trip demonstrated a mix of diplomacy, spectacle, and strategic maneuvering as Trump navigated complex geopolitical challenges and sought to make significant diplomatic strides in the Middle East.