In May 2025, President Donald Trump launched a high-risk diplomatic mission throughout the Middle East and beyond, holding unprecedented negotiations and contentious policy changes. This effort, referred to as a “diplomatic blitz,” has profound implications for US foreign policy and international stability.
Syria: Removing Sanctions and Engaging New Leadership
In a landmark gesture, President Trump received Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh, the first high-level interaction between America and Syria in 25 years. While meeting him, Trump declared an end to long-standing US sanctions on Syria, with the intention of promoting reforms and reconstruction in the beleaguered country.
Al-Sharaa, who came to power following the toppling of a coalition that put an end to Assad family rule in 54 years, vowed a new era of reforms and reconstruction. Sanction relief is viewed as a strategic gesture to counter Iran’s influence in Syria and to promote the removal of foreign terrorists.
Iran: Renewed Pressure and Nuclear Negotiations
President Trump brought back the “maximum pressure” policy against Iran, with an aim to make Tehran negotiate a new nuclear deal. The policy involves increased economic sanctions on Iranian oil exports with the goal to bring them to zero.
In turn, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei first spurned the overtures, charging that the US was laying down ultimatums instead of engaging in true negotiations. Later, though, backchannel talks facilitated by Oman have occurred, suggesting a tentative, but still fragile, way forward for new diplomacy.
Gaza: Controversial Redevelopment Proposal
President Trump suggested that the US should take control of the Gaza Strip, expel its Palestinian residents, and redevelop it as the “Riviera of the Middle East.” The suggestion has been widely criticized as a form of ethnic cleansing and an international law violation.
Although the plan has been well-received by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, it has been strongly opposed by many nations and bodies, including the United Nations and Turkey. Trump administration officials have tried to backtrack on aspects of the plan, but much skepticism exists regarding its consequences for local stability.
Ukraine: Suspension of Military Aid
In a major policy change, President Trump directed an indefinite hold on all US military aid to Ukraine, in response to disappointment with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s dedication to peace talks with Russia. It affects more than $1 billion in weapons and ammunition that had been planned to be shipped to Ukraine.
The suspension will pressure Kyiv into negotiations for peace and permit the US to reorient resources. Although proponents believe it is a move toward bringing the war to an end, opponents believe that it undermines the defense of Ukraine, encourages Russia, and stresses US alliances.
Conclusion
President Trump’s diplomatic blitz on multiple fronts is a risky and contentious strategy for US foreign policy. By reaching out to enemies and friends, Trump seeks to redefine the global power grid. But the long-term consequences of such activities are unknown, with possible dangers and benefits looming in the future.
