President Donald Trump has declared the United States has “no stronger partner” than Saudi Arabia during the first stop of a whirlwind Gulf tour focused on investment and defence.

President Donald Trump has embarked on a significant foreign trip to the Middle East, beginning with Saudi Arabia, amid concerns over potential conflicts of interest due to his family’s growing business ties in the region. Criticism arises as these ties could influence U.S. foreign policy towards Middle Eastern nations.

President Trump announced the lifting of long-standing US sanctions on Syria during his visit to Saudi Arabia, aiming to normalise relations with its new government.

Donald Trump has arrived in Saudi Arabia, marking the start of his first major overseas visit during his second term as US president. The tour will also include stops in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, with business deals expected to dominate the agenda.

As President Donald Trump embarks on a three-nation trip to the Middle East, he is set to address significant geopolitical crises, including the ongoing war in Gaza, escalating tensions with Iran regarding its nuclear programme, and India-Pakistan relations.

Hamas announced on Monday that it had released Edan Alexander, believed to be the last living US hostage in Gaza, as it strives to restart ceasefire talks.