Positive developments soon at Bab Al Mandab, says Trump adviser
Massad Boulos, a senior adviser to former President Donald Trump, announced that the situation at the Bab Al Mandab Strait could improve in the coming hours. He highlighted intensive coordination between Washington and Gulf leaders, and discussed broader regional priorities including Sudan, Lebanon…
At the Arab Media Summit in Dubai, Massad Boulos, a senior adviser to former President Donald Trump on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs, announced that the situation at the Bab Al Mandab Strait could see positive developments in the near future. The adviser said Washington is working closely with Gulf partners to address the tensions that have escalated in the region.
Bab Al Mandab: A Flashpoint in the Red Sea
The Bab Al Mandab Strait, the narrow waterway that connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, has long been a strategic chokepoint for international shipping. In recent weeks, the area has seen increased military activity and diplomatic friction, largely driven by the broader US‑Iran conflict. Boulos described the situation as "only about two days old," indicating that the latest flare‑up is a recent development rather than a long‑standing dispute.
While he did not specify a concrete agreement, Boulos noted that "early signs of change have already appeared" and that the administration is treating the matter with urgency but not panic. He echoed comments from Vice‑President John D. Vance, who previously referred to the Bab Al Mandab issue as a "red line" for the United States and emphasized the importance of regional security.
Coordinated Efforts with Gulf Leaders
According to Boulos, President Trump has been in continuous contact with key Gulf leaders, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and other heads of state. Over the past year and a half, Boulos claims to have met with roughly twelve Arab League heads of state, and in many cases with crown princes or foreign ministers from countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt.
He emphasized that Arab leaders "have a high degree of confidence" in Trump’s handling of regional crises. Boulos also highlighted that the United States views the Iranian crisis in the context of other regional challenges, noting that many Arab countries are grappling with wars or indirect conflicts, while others bear the consequences of instability elsewhere.
Broader Regional Priorities: Sudan, Lebanon, and Libya
Beyond the Bab Al Mandab Strait, Boulos outlined the U.S. priorities in several other hotspots. He described the Sudanese conflict as "the largest humanitarian disaster on earth," with about 35 million people in need of assistance. Washington has reportedly provided over $3 billion in aid since the war began, the largest single‑donor contribution. Boulos stressed the importance of a civilian government and the removal of militia control from Sudan’s future political process.
In Lebanon, the adviser said progress hinges on strengthening the Lebanese army and national institutions. He mentioned an upcoming conference in Paris focused on supporting the Lebanese army, with France and other international partners involved. Boulos also noted that the Lebanon‑Israel track is moving slower than desired, but that U.S. military and security bodies remain in regular contact with their Lebanese counterparts.
Regarding Libya, Boulos characterized the American initiative and the UN‑supported or French approach as "complementary" rather than competing. He highlighted a UN‑backed agreement to hold parliamentary and presidential elections within two years, and stressed the need for institutional reforms during that interim period. He cited collaboration with regional partners such as Turkey, Egypt, the UAE, Qatar, France, Italy, and Algeria to support Libya’s unification process.
What Happens Next?
While Boulos did not provide a definitive timeline, he reiterated that the U.S. is actively monitoring the situation and coordinating with allies to ensure a swift and positive resolution at the Bab Al Mandab Strait. The adviser also underscored the importance of maintaining momentum in Sudan, Lebanon, and Libya, where the U.S. remains committed to supporting civilian governance and regional stability.
Observers will be watching closely to see whether Washington’s diplomatic outreach translates into tangible progress on the ground. The next few hours could prove pivotal, as Boulos hinted that "developments for the better" may emerge soon.
Why it matters
The Bab Al Mandab Strait is a critical maritime corridor; any instability could disrupt global shipping and regional security. U.S. engagement with Gulf allies signals a concerted effort to maintain stability in a volatile region.
Key points
- Boulos predicts positive changes at Bab Al Mandab soon
- Washington coordinates closely with Saudi, UAE, and other Gulf leaders
- U.S. prioritizes humanitarian aid in Sudan and supports civilian governance
- Lebanon’s stability depends on strengthening its army and institutions
- Libya’s future hinges on UN‑backed elections and institutional reforms
Frequently asked questions
What is the Bab Al Mandab Strait?
It is a narrow waterway connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, crucial for international shipping and regional security.
Why is the U.S. involved in the region?
The U.S. aims to maintain stability, support allies, and address broader security concerns linked to the Iran‑US conflict and other regional crises.
