Iraq and Jordan to join Trump-GCC meeting as US-Arab diplomacy intensifies

This week, US President Donald Trump will engage in high-stakes diplomacy with Gulf officials, including Iraq and Jordan, as US-Arab relations intensify. The meeting, held during the UN General Assembly's high-level week, will concentrate on Iran and its proxies in the region, as well as the ongoing conflict with the US. Alongside Gulf officials, representatives from Iraq and Jordan are anticipated to participate.

Egypt may also be included. Diplomacy has been actively pursued in the days leading up to the debate, with numerous meetings, panel discussions, and interviews taking place. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio attended a reception for State Department staff and international media, holding several meetings to advance US diplomacy during this critical week.

Dr Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed, contributed to a panel discussion on Iran and regional security, emphasizing the need for a "new mindset" in relations with Iran. He stated that discussions about the region's future should involve both Tehran and Arab states, as the Iranians consider themselves a regional power and prefer discussing strategic issues with the United States.

Dr Gargash also mentioned that the UAE and other countries must adapt to dealing with an unstable Iran for an extended period. US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz echoed similar sentiments, noting that Iran has transitioned from supplying Hezbollah with advanced weapons to increasingly arming the Houthis, resulting in the proliferation of sophisticated weaponry.

The Houthis' escalating attacks in Yemen and their control over strategic areas, such as the Bab Al Mandeb strait, will likely be a key focus of the US-Arab talks, as Iran is alleged to have aided the rebels in planning and executing their campaign. The September 30 withdrawal of the US-led international coalition against ISIS marks a significant milestone in Iraq, while the future of an order to disarm Iran-backed militias remains a crucial issue.

Diplomatic engagement among Arab nations is expected to reach unprecedented levels, with an extensive schedule of meetings and side events involving Arab officials.