The Iran war could consume the Trump presidency

The Gulf learns not to rely on America

Though the United Arab Emirates remains all-in on defence ties with America, others in the Gulf, led by Saudi Arabia, the regional giant, can be seen hedging. America remains uniquely important as a partner, but it is less trusted. Some Gulf rulers will quietly pay Iran for a quiet life. Others are deepening defence ties with such players as Turkey, and economic links with China. It does not help that Mr Trump has played down Iranian attacks on American bases and local infrastructure in Gulf countries, anxious to obscure the war’s costs. Perhaps eager to convey his dominance as the war raged, in March Mr Trump publicly mocked the Saudi crown prince, Muhammad bin Salman, bragging that the prince never imagined “he’d be kissing my ass” as American president.