Trump says he believes the Middle East is entering a period of greater regional cooperation, arguing that Iran’s diminished military capability has changed the strategic balance. He made the remarks during an Oval Office meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi at the White House on Tuesday (14 Jul).
Speaking to reporters, US President Donald Trump questioned whether the United States should continue protecting a key strategic strait without compensation, saying, “I don’t like the concept of a fee,” but adding it is “unfair that we’re protecting this strait for the entire world.” He reiterated that he prefers foreign investment in the United States over charging transit fees.
On regional security, Trump described Iran as “the bully of the Middle East”, claiming its military capability has been significantly weakened. He added, “I think the Middle East is coming together like it’s never come together before,” before touting Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi as “one of the great leaders in the Middle East”, expressing confidence that closer cooperation across the region will continue.
Trump’s remarks come as the Iran war continues to reshape regional security following months of US and Israeli military operations against Iran and Iran-backed groups, alongside a continuing US naval blockade targeting Iranian trade routes.
Earlier this week, reports suggested the Trump administration was considering a transit fee on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, although Trump later said he preferred securing major Gulf investment commitments in the United States instead of imposing charges.
His meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi also reflects Washington’s efforts to strengthen ties with Iraq’s new leadership, with both governments expected to expand cooperation on energy, investment and security while seeking to curb the influence of Iran-backed militias.
Follow on social media TikTok@tut0ughInstagram@tut0ugh Threads@tut0ugh X@tut0ugh YouTube@tut0ugh
