Daijiworld Media Network – Riyadh

Riyadh, May 21: During a high-profile gathering in Riyadh, US President Donald Trump delivered a sharp critique of decades of American foreign policy, declaring that “nation-builders wrecked more nations than they built.” He called for an end to sanctions on Syria drawing a standing ovation and signaled a shift toward diplomacy in the Middle East.

Trump avoided a stop in Israel, highlighting instead the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. “The people in Gaza are starving,” he said, a pointed remark amid Israel’s continued refusal of a ceasefire.

His visit comes amid behind-the-scenes talks with Hamas, a tentative détente with Yemen’s Houthis, and revived nuclear discussions with Iran. Trump’s “peace through strength” doctrine favors bold diplomacy, echoing efforts from his first term such as the Abraham Accords.

The Middle East has changed since 2017, with Gulf states, Turkiye, and Iran easing tensions. War-torn nations like Syria and Yemen have found relative stability, and Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has emerged as a regional peacemaker.

However, the Gaza conflict remains a major obstacle. Analysts warn that without resolving it, regional integration and Trump’s broader peace agenda could falter.

Despite criticism at home, Trump’s Gulf visit has opened a window for diplomatic progress—one that may not stay open for long.