https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/04/02/saudi-arabia-trump-foreign-policy
The recent return of Donald Trump to the presidency has sparked significant interest and concern globally, particularly in the Middle East. One country that has been closely watching Trump’s resurgence is Saudi Arabia. According to this recent article, Saudi Arabia is eager to see Trump back in power, believing that his administration will be more sympathetic to the kingdom’s concerns and interests due to previous relations during Trumps first term in office. The American people tend to be more familiar and friendly with the Saudi Arabian people due to the natural disliking of the other Middle Eastern countries.
From a realist perspective, Saudi Arabia’s preference for a Trump presidency can be seen as a strategic calculation to advance its national interests. Trump’s administration is expected to be more supportive of Saudi Arabia’s regional ambitions, particularly regarding Iran. This alignment of interests is likely to lead to increased cooperation between the two countries, potentially resulting in greater stability in the region by creating a regional power. However, it is likely that Iran will suffer from the Trump presidency, causing uproar within the country as they begin to feel the effects of the administration’s foreign policy. However, a neoliberal perspective suggests that economic interdependence and cooperation among states are crucial factors in shaping international relations. In this context, Saudi Arabia’s desire to diversify its economy away from oil dependence and attract American investments in major projects tied to “Vision 2030” becomes a significant consideration according to the article. Trump’s administration may be more willing to support Saudi Arabia’s economic ambitions, potentially leading to increased economic cooperation between the two countries.
The implications of Trump’s return to power extend far beyond US-Saudi relations, however. The Middle East region is likely to be significantly affected by Trump’s foreign policy approach. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the war in Yemen, and the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran are all likely to be impacted by Trump’s policies. A more hawkish US stance on Iran, for example, could exacerbate regional tensions and potentially lead to increased conflict within the region.
Ultimately, the impact of Trump’s foreign policy approach on the region will depend on a complex interplay of factors, including the policies of other regional actors and the evolving global geopolitical landscape. This is related to class as it is discussing international and national/domestic security concerns. The Middle East, being a shatterbelt region, is in constant turmoil and needs a grounding country. Trump’s move on the Middle East could make or break the situation and unfortunately is is a waiting game from here.