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senior political analyst Marwan Bishara highlights that the core of this visit goes beyond the impressive trade figures and massive investment deals. He emphasizes that while economic agreements were front and center, they serve a deeper strategic purpose—reflecting a shift in Washington’s approach under President Trump. Rather than letting geopolitics shape economic decisions, Bishara suggests that Trump is using economics as the primary tool to drive his geopolitical agenda, particularly in the Middle East.

Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani says Qatar and US have taken their relationship to “another level” after signing deals to boost defence and trade ties. The deals come after talks between US President Donald Trump and the emir in Doha, the first state visit by a US president to Qatar.

Syria's new leader Ahmed al Sharaa is addressing the nation for the first time since Donald Trump lifted sanctions against Damascus.

The US president has praised his hosts in Qatar for offering him “unbelievable splendour and warmth” as he addressed a state dinner at Lusail Palace. “I’m the first American president ever to officially visit your great country. It’s a great honour to me, especially since I [have known] the incredible gentlemen on my left for a long time. A lot longer than I’ve been in politics,” Trump said, gesturing to the emir of Qatar, Al Thani.

The historic deals signed between Trump and Qatar’s Emir dominated discussions, though details of their private talks remain undisclosed. As the leaders departed, journalists spotted US envoy Steve Witkoff, who oversees the Ukraine and Gaza wars. When pressed, Witkoff struck an optimistic tone on both crises, claiming “progress on all fronts” in Gaza, though he declined to specify whether this meant aid access or ceasefire negotiations. His vague but positive remarks suggest behind-the-scenes diplomatic movements, even as public statements remain guarded. The ambiguity reflects the delicate nature of these parallel negotiations, with Qatar increasingly positioned as a regional mediator. While tangible outcomes were scarce, the envoy’s demeanour hinted at quieter advancements. The Emir’s willingness to host such talks underscores Qatar’s growing geopolitical role.

Donald Trump has made history as the first sitting US president to undertake an official state visit to Qatar. During talks with Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the leaders signed multiple agreements to bolster trade and defence cooperation, including a landmark $200bn commercial jet deal.

US President Donald Trump is engaged in a flurry of diplomatic activities in the Middle East as part of his three-nation tour. On his second day, Trump has met the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council in Riyadh. He addressed a wide range of regional issues during his speech at the summit. Trump told the council of his plans to negotiate with Iran.

US President Donald Trump joins Gulf leaders as the summit of the United States and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members kicks off in the Saudi capital, Riyadh. The summit comes as the US has been holding nuclear talks with Iran.

US President Donald Trump has met Syria's new president Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh. On Tuesday, Trump announced he's lifting sanctions on Syria. He made the announcement in Saudi Arabia, during the first day of his three-country tour of the Gulf.

US President Trump received a lavish welcome in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, the first day of his visit to the Middle East. The two countries signed a $142bn defence sales agreement as part of a Saudi Arabian commitment to invest $600bn in the United States.