President Donald Trump urged Gulf leaders to help push Iran into ending support for regional proxy groups as a key condition for any nuclear deal.
Speaking at a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) meeting hosted by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Trump said:
“Iran must stop funding terrorism, end proxy wars, and completely halt its pursuit of nuclear weapons.”
He emphasized that Iran must not be allowed to have a nuclear weapon, while also expressing his hope for a peaceful agreement. However, he warned that the U.S. would act if diplomacy fails.
Talks with Iran Ongoing, But Time Is Running Out
The U.S. and Iran have held four rounds of nuclear talks since last month. Trump believes a deal is possible but says the opportunity is closing fast.
He specifically pointed to Iran’s support for:
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Hamas in Gaza
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Hezbollah in Lebanon
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Houthis in Yemen
These groups have faced setbacks since the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed Trump’s comments as “deceitful,” without directly addressing the call to end support for proxy groups.
Trump Warns of Consequences
Speaking later aboard Air Force One, Trump urged Iran to “make the right decision.”
“We’ll either do this in a friendly way or a very unfriendly way. And that won’t be pleasant.”
Trump said it’s the right time to end the influence of Hezbollah, now weakened after losing key leaders in its war with Israel and losing Syrian support following the fall of Bashar Assad.
Historic Meeting with Syria’s New President
Trump also met with Ahmad al-Sharaa, the new President of Syria, marking a dramatic shift in U.S. policy. Al-Sharaa rose to power after his forces captured Damascus in a January offensive that ended 54 years of Assad family rule.
Trump described the meeting as “great,” calling al-Sharaa a “strong and impressive young leader.” He also promised to lift longstanding U.S. sanctions on Syria, with backing from Prince Mohammed and Turkish President Erdogan.
“He’s got a real shot at holding Syria together,” Trump added.
Al-Sharaa, once known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, previously led al-Qaida-affiliated groups in Iraq and Syria. Though his past raises concerns, Trump believes engaging with him could start a new chapter for Syria.
State Visit to Qatar: Red Carpet Welcome
Trump then traveled to Qatar, greeted by Emir Sheikh Tamim Al Thani and escorted by Qatari fighter jets.
Qatar rolled out an elaborate welcome and is expected to play a key role in regional diplomacy. However, it also remains under scrutiny for:
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Past corruption allegations
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FIFA bribery scandals
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Ties to controversial political groups during the Arab Spring
Despite its complex reputation, Qatar has acted as a mediator in major conflicts, including between the U.S. and the Taliban, and in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.
Controversy Over Trump’s Gifted Plane
During his Qatar trip, controversy grew over reports that Qatar offered Trump a luxury Boeing 747-8 aircraft as a temporary Air Force One. Critics argue such a gift from a foreign government is inappropriate.
Trump defended the plan, saying the jet would eventually be donated to his presidential library and not used after leaving office.
