Trump’s handling of the Iran war has significantly damaged the United States’ standing with its partners in the region. Reports of a rift with Saudi Arabia, America’s most important Arab ally, shed light on the loss of trust and prestige the superpower has suffered.
Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman even physically restrained the US president in May. Because the kingdom closed its airspace, Trump had to scrap the “Project Freedom” mission, which aimed to escort ships through the Iran-blockaded Strait of Hormuz. The crown prince withstood massive pressure. Washington reportedly even threatened to withhold deliveries of interceptor missiles. But the de facto Saudi ruler apparently considered Trump’s push and the risk of escalation with Iran more dangerous than incurring America’s wrath.
Discomfort with the erratic Trump is not limited to Riyadh. Other Gulf rulers also view him as unreliable, clueless – and at times even a security risk. Iran war was unleashed against their will. Trust in negotiations to end it is low. No one seriously believes they will produce an arrangement that effectively contains the threat from Iran. As neighbors of the Islamic Republic, the Gulf states must, for the foreseeable future, walk a tightrope between détente and toughness.
A similar balancing act is required in their dealings with their ally in the White House. Despite all efforts at emancipation, the Gulf states will remain dependent on US weapons deliveries and protection by the US military. They must keep Trump in a good mood. He has already boasted that the Saudi crown prince probably didn’t think he would have to “kiss his ass.”
But Muhammad Bin Salman has also shown he can flex his muscles when US actions seem too damaging. Washington is now reportedly considering reducing its military presence in Saudi Arabia. Partnerships – or even friendships – look different.
Source: www.faz.net
