In a fiery address that’s already making global headlines, former U.S. President Donald Trump has delivered a dramatic speech at a U.S.-Saudi investment summit in Riyadh, sharply criticizing past Western intervention in the Middle East and hailing Saudi Arabia as a beacon of modern progress.
"A Modern Miracle the Arabian Way"
Speaking to a packed audience of Saudi officials, American business leaders, and international delegates, Trump praised the Kingdom for what he called “a modern miracle the Arabian way,” commending its rapid economic and infrastructural transformation under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
“While others lectured and interfered, Saudi Arabia led with vision and pride,” Trump declared. “You didn’t need the West’s permission—you showed the world how to lead.”
Major Policy Announcements
The high-stakes address also included several major announcements:
Sanctions Lifted on Syria: Trump revealed that the United States would be lifting sweeping sanctions on Syria, offering it what he called “a renewed chance at greatness.” He stated that the time had come to "restore dignity and sovereignty" to Middle Eastern nations without foreign interference.
$142 Billion Arms Deal Signed: In a separate development just prior to the speech, the White House confirmed a massive $142 billion arms agreement between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, signaling renewed military and economic ties.
Stern Warning to Iran: Earlier in the day, Trump issued a pointed warning to Iran, saying it was “time to choose between chaos and cooperation.”
Symbolic Gestures and Local Flair
To welcome the former president, Saudi Arabia pulled out all the stops—including the deployment of a mobile McDonald's truck, which served American-style fast food at the summit venue, in a show of hospitality and cultural fusion.
Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia marks the beginning of his four-day tour of the Middle East, with planned stops in the UAE and potentially Syria.
