Gulf leaders will try to moderate Trump's policies

Significance Trump's early cabinet picks favour a return to 'maximal pressure' on Iran, amid speculation about more Israeli strikes, but the Gulf states today have less interest in seeing their northern neighbour destabilised. Partly this reflects disappointments they experienced during Trump's first term. Impacts Warring parties in Gaza, Israel and Lebanon may seek gains on the ground to improve their bargaining position before Trump takes office. Gulf leaders will seek deeper dialogue with Tehran over the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. Trump's election will embolden Israel's settler movement.