Trump to Meet Gulf Leaders on Iran Amid Tensions, Netanyahu Seeks Audience

U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with leaders from Gulf nations next week during the UN General Assembly in New York. The meeting, according to Axios, will focus on Iran and U.S. regional strategy following recent escalations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also expected to attend the assembly and desires a meeting with Trump, though none has been confirmed.

The planned summit occurs amidst frustration from Saudi Arabia regarding the U.S. response to Iranian aggression. Gulf states have borne the brunt of Iranian attacks, including ongoing Houthi assaults supported by Iran against Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia's request for U.S. intervention has reportedly strained relations, particularly as Washington has been reluctant to directly engage the Houthis.

Reports suggest this U.S. reluctance prompted Saudi Arabia to seek intelligence assistance from Israel. Furthermore, American officials held a secret meeting with senior Houthi representatives in Muscat, Oman, facilitated by the Omani government. During these talks, the Houthis reportedly pledged not to attack U.S. vessels and committed to a ceasefire with Washington set for 2025. They also allegedly agreed not to target Israeli or other commercial ships, with the exception of Saudi vessels.

Mohamed Abdel Salam, a senior Houthi official residing in Muscat and under U.S. sanctions, was part of the delegation. The article notes that the initial escalation of conflict with Iran began on February 28, with Kuwait and the UAE continuing to face Iranian fire even after a subsequent ceasefire.