Optimism at the Doha Forum Regarding Trump's New Term
Participants at the recent Doha Forum expressed a sense of optimism regarding the future of U.S. policy in the Middle East under President-elect Donald Trump. During discussions on U.S. strategy in the region, officials and experts highlighted positive signals from Washington, indicating a willingness to address regional issues even before Trump officially takes office. Dr. Majed Al-Ansari, a spokesperson for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the importance of U.S. engagement in achieving peace and stability in the Middle East, noting Qatar's strategic alliance with the United States.
Calls for Balanced U.S. Engagement
The forum underscored the necessity for the U.S. to adopt a balanced approach in its dealings with Middle Eastern countries. Dr. Abdulaziz Saqr, president of the Gulf Research Center, pointed out that Trump's upcoming term differs from his previous one, and the region is keen to see how his administration will navigate complex issues, particularly concerning Iran and Israel. Saqr urged the U.S. to foster dialogue with Iran while also applying pressure on Israel to support Palestinian rights, highlighting the interconnectedness of regional stability and U.S. foreign policy.
Acknowledgment of Qatar's Mediating Role
Former White House envoy Jason Greenblatt praised Qatar's mediation efforts in resolving conflicts and facilitating dialogue in the region. He called for U.S. intervention to restore peace and stability, particularly in light of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Sanam Vakil from Chatham House echoed this sentiment, urging the U.S. to clarify its objectives in the Middle East and strengthen alliances among regional countries to confront emerging global challenges.
