During a signing ceremony of executive orders in the Oval Office, US President Donald Trump revealed his plans to visit Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Saudi Arabia next month.
When asked if the trip would take place in May as initially reported, Trump responded, “It could be next month, maybe a little bit later.”
Trump highlighted Saudi Arabia as his first foreign destination after the kingdom promised to invest nearly USD 1 trillion in US companies, as reported the Times of Israel.
Trump’s upcoming visit to the Middle East is significant on multiple fronts. The trip aims to strengthen US ties with key Gulf allies in areas like security, trade, and counterterrorism, with Saudi Arabia and Qatar hosting major US military bases, and the UAE being a key partner in regional military operations.
Trump’s visit also focuses on the massive investment pledge from Saudi Arabia, which has committed to investing nearly USD 1 trillion in US companies, potentially offering substantial economic benefits.
The Middle East, particularly the Gulf states, serves as a crucial market for US exports, and the trip may help enhance trade relations, secure deals, and support American businesses in the region.
Furthermore, the visit comes at a time when the US seeks to reinforce its energy security, as Saudi Arabia and the UAE are major players in global oil markets, with both nations investing in renewable energy sources.
Trump’s presence could signal US support for peace efforts in the region, including the Abraham Accords, and address broader concerns like Iran’s influence and nuclear program.
Politically, the visit contributes to Trump’s foreign policy legacy, emphasising his “America First” agenda while consolidating relations with regional partners. Given existing tensions regarding oil production and human rights issues, Trump’s visit may also help stabilize these relationships and reduce friction.
At the same time, Trump’s comments during a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday set off a wave of controversy, as he suggested the possibility of seeking a third presidential term, despite the constraints of the US Constitution.
“There are methods which you could do it,” Trump remarked, raising concerns about his intentions to challenge the 22nd Amendment, which limits presidents to two terms. “I’m not joking,” he added, although he stressed, “It is far too early to think about it.”
The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, specifically states that no one can be elected president more than twice. The amendment was introduced after President Franklin D. Roosevelt served four terms, a situation that was unprecedented in U.S. history. Any efforts to circumvent this constitutional barrier would be legally questionable, and it remains uncertain how seriously Trump might consider such a move.
