Amid Iran talks, Trump surprises Gulf states with call for Israel normalization
The United States faced challenges in finalizing an agreement to end hostilities with Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In a surprising move, Donald Trump called for Gulf states to sign onto the Abraham Accords, emphasizing the need for simultaneous normalization with Israel. Many Arab nations are hesitant to proceed without addressing the Palestinian statehood issue first.
- ▪The U.S. has not finalized an agreement to end hostilities with Iran as of May 25, 2026.
- ▪Donald Trump urged Gulf states to sign the Abraham Accords during a conference call.
- ▪Normalization of relations with Israel is contingent on addressing Palestinian political prospects.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
An aerial view, shot by drone, shows vessels anchored in the Strait of Hormuz, seen from Musandam, Oman, on May 25, 2026. REUTERS After a weekend of diplomatic confusion, discussions, crisis meetings, and orchestrated leaks to the press, the United States was left empty-handed on Monday, May 25: Despite talks with Tehran, it still had not finalized a brief agreement to officially end hostilities in Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Several countries, including Pakistan, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, had joined the effort to bring the two sides closer together. Yet, on Monday morning, they received a surprising and unexpectedly pointed message from Washington. Rather than thanks, they faced public pressure.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Le Monde (EN).
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