Washington/Davos: US President Donald Trump declared the Middle East to be in a state of unprecedented stability following a bilateral meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos on Wednesday. Highlighting progress in Gaza and continued pressure on Iran, Trump asserted that American involvement has been the decisive factor in calming regional tensions.
During the talks, which covered regional security and diplomacy, Trump praised Egypt’s role as a mediator. Addressing the situation in Gaza, the President claimed that without US intervention, peace would have remained elusive. While characterizing the current state of affairs as "amazing," he acknowledged lingering threats from groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah. Trump warned that armed factions must disarm, stating that if they fail to "get rid of the guns," they would face severe consequences.
Iran featured prominently in the President's remarks. Trump reiterated his assertion that targeted US military action against an Iranian nuclear facility had successfully prevented Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon within a two-month timeframe. He emphasized that strict sanctions and penalties on Iran would continue, leaving open the possibility of further measures if the country resumed nuclear activities.
The leaders also discussed the contentious dispute over the massive dam built by Ethiopia on the Nile River. Trump described the structure as "dangerous" for blocking the water flow that Egypt has relied upon for "a million years." Terming the situation a major problem that requires resolution, he pledged to facilitate direct dialogue between Egyptian and Ethiopian leadership.
Additionally, Trump promoted his proposed "Board of Peace," a new international forum intended to lock in ceasefires and prevent wider conflicts. He described the initiative as potentially "the most prestigious board ever formed," claiming there is significant global interest in joining. On a separate issue regarding Greenland, the President downplayed the prospect of using force, stating that military action was not under consideration.
The President's emphasis on Middle East stability holds particular significance for India, given New Delhi's heavy reliance on energy imports from the region. Any reduction in tensions involving Gaza and Iran directly lowers risks to the oil markets and shipping routes that are vital to the Indian economy.
(Inputs from IANS)