WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has said that Gulf countries should contribute financially to the cost of American military operations against Iran and broader security efforts in the Middle East, arguing that the United States has spent heavily protecting one of the world’s wealthiest regions.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said Washington should not bear the financial burden alone, insisting that countries benefiting from US security guarantees should help cover the expenses.
“I want the United States to be reimbursed because we are protecting one of the richest regions in the world,” Trump said. “We are spending enormous amounts of money, and we should be paid for providing that protection.”
The US president specifically mentioned Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, and Bahrain, saying these countries benefit from regional stability and the American security presence. According to Trump, it is reasonable for them to contribute to the costs associated with maintaining security and deterring threats from Iran.
Trump’s remarks come amid continued tensions between the United States and Iran, with Washington maintaining a strong military presence in the Gulf to safeguard strategic shipping routes, energy infrastructure, and regional allies.
While Trump reiterated that the US has invested significant resources in protecting the region, there has been no official response indicating that Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, or Bahrain have agreed to his proposal or are considering financial contributions toward these security costs.
The comments are expected to spark debate over burden-sharing between the United States and its Gulf allies, particularly as regional security challenges and geopolitical tensions continue to evolve.
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