Trump to Convene Arab and Muslim Leaders in New York
US President Donald Trump plans to meet with leaders of Gulf nations on the sidelines of the 81st UN General Assembly in New York next Tuesday. The meeting aims to discuss the next steps in the conflict with Iran.
According to reports from Axios on Thursday, three sources have confirmed this plan. The report emerges amidst stalled efforts by Washington to restart ceasefire negotiations with Iran, while Gulf nations face escalating attacks from Tehran and Houthi militias allied with the Shia government in recent days.
According to the report, Trump is expected to meet with leaders from the six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), namely Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman. However, there is a possibility that the guest list will be expanded to include other Arab and Muslim leaders.
It was noted that the US Department of State sent out initial invitations on Wednesday. The discussions will focus on US proposals regarding a post-conflict strategy, as Trump and his senior team work to formulate a plan expected to be finalised after the US midterm elections in November.
It was also reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wishes to meet Trump in New York, though no meeting has been scheduled as of yet.
Yesterday, Trump claimed that Iran had contacted Washington directly and expressed a desire to reach a deal, describing the conflict as nearing its end. “They want to make a deal, and we shall see what the outcome is,” he told reporters upon arriving in North Carolina.
Oil Crisis Alert?
These latest diplomatic efforts are being undertaken amidst the increasing economic burden on Gulf nations due to the conflict. Saudi Arabia has closed the East-West Pipeline, a highly strategic network that transports crude oil from the kingdom’s eastern coast to the port of Yanbu on the Red Sea, following damage caused by drone attacks.
Crude oil prices fell from previous highs on Wednesday after Saudi Arabia reportedly arranged additional shipments through the port of Sohar in Oman using ship-to-ship transfer methods, easing fears of a prolonged supply shortage. Brent crude prices fell to US$105.8 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) dropped 0.22% to US$102.14.
“Iran may be willing to negotiate after the US midterms, but the continued reluctance to engage diplomatically risks prolonging the duration of the conflict,” said Michael Feller, Head of Strategy at Geopolitical Strategy.
“Iran might be willing to reach a deal after the midterms. If not, the war could continue until the end of 2028, or even longer,” he added.
“One thing that could ease the situation is the repair of the East-West Pipeline… although stocks at export terminals will run out if that pipeline route is not restored within days,” he explained.