World Reacts to Trump’s Second Presidential Victory Amid Middle Eastern Tensions
Washington, D.C. — Donald Trump’s re-election to a second term as U.S. president has sparked mixed reactions globally, with allies and adversaries alike preparing for shifts in American foreign policy. Many traditional U.S. allies are awaiting clarity on Trump’s stance toward ongoing conflicts, especially in Ukraine and Gaza, where shifts in policy could impact international relations and regional stability.
Israel and Prime Minister Netanyahu's Response
One of the first to respond was Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces domestic challenges after the recent dismissal of his defense minister, Yoav Gallant. Netanyahu expressed optimism, viewing Trump’s return as an opportunity to reinforce the U.S.-Israel alliance. “Your historic return to the White House represents a new beginning for America and a powerful recommitment to the great alliance between Israel and America,” Netanyahu stated, calling it a “huge victory.” Israel’s incoming Defense Minister, Israel Katz, also praised Trump’s re-election, emphasizing plans to bolster the U.S.-Israel alliance and coordinate efforts against perceived regional threats, particularly Iran.
Saudi Arabia Sees Renewed Opportunities
The Saudi royal family, including King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, extended congratulations, underscoring hopes for a strengthened partnership. The crown prince, who formed close ties with Trump during his first term, sent a congratulatory message highlighting the “close relations between the two friendly countries.” Trump’s ties to Saudi Arabia were notably reinforced by his son-in-law Jared Kushner, who helped facilitate Saudi investments in Kushner’s U.S.-based fund, Affinity Partners.
Palestinian and Turkish Leaders Respond with Caution and Hope
In a measured response, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas congratulated Trump, expressing hopes for cooperation toward regional peace and Palestinian self-determination. Conversely, Hamas issued a cautious statement, stating that their stance toward the new U.S. administration would depend on its actions regarding Palestinian rights and Israel’s treatment of Gaza.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has previously shared a friendly rapport with Trump, celebrated the victory, voicing optimism for a "fairer world." He emphasized his desire to work with Trump to address the ongoing crises in Ukraine and Gaza. During Trump’s first term, Erdogan and Trump shared mutual admiration, though diplomatic relations faced strains over military and regional policy.
Middle East Leaders Await New Phase of Relations
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani also welcomed Trump’s re-election, hoping for strengthened cooperation and mutual interests, especially as Iraq continues to navigate its complex relationship with U.S. military presence. Leaders from Lebanon, Qatar, the UAE, Jordan, and Egypt followed suit with congratulatory messages, signaling a collective anticipation of renewed dialogue with the Trump administration.
As Trump prepares to begin his second term, foreign leaders remain poised for potential shifts in U.S. policy, particularly in volatile regions. For both allies and challengers, Trump’s re-election brings a blend of hope, caution, and unresolved questions on the future of American foreign relations.
Global Leaders Emphasize “Peace and Stability” as Middle East Wars Continue
As conflicts in Palestinian territories and Lebanon escalate, world leaders are calling for renewed “peace and stability” in the region. Leaders across the Middle East have responded to Trump’s re-election, with many cautiously optimistic about possible shifts in U.S. policy.
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI Hails “Pivotal” U.S.-Morocco Alliance
In North Africa, Morocco’s King Mohammed VI congratulated Trump, highlighting the enduring alliance between Morocco and the U.S. He underscored a significant decision from Trump’s previous term: U.S. recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara in exchange for Morocco’s normalization of relations with Israel. The king called this decision a “milestone and pivotal moment” in U.S.-Moroccan relations and a “memorable act for which the Moroccan people will be forever grateful.”
Iran’s Noticeable Silence on Trump’s Victory
In stark contrast, Iran remains noticeably silent on Trump’s re-election. The strained relations between Trump and Iran are rooted in several high-profile decisions, including Trump’s withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal, the assassination of Iranian Quds Force leader Qassem Soleimani in 2020, and repeated threats aimed at the Iranian government. These actions have left Iran wary, viewing Trump’s return as a potentially challenging chapter for the Islamic Republic.
With leaders emphasizing peace amid regional instability, Trump’s re-election has underscored the mixed global perspectives on America’s role in the Middle East and North Africa.
Source: MEE