Donald Trump will travel to Saudi Arabia, Israel and the Vatican in late May on a mission to unite three of the world’s most prominent religions against intolerance, terrorism and Iran.
Speaking from the Rose Garden during an event dedicated to religious liberties, Mr. Trump said he would use the trip – his first foreign foray since becoming president – to build cooperation between Muslims, Christians and Jews for fighting terrorism.
“Our task is not to dictate to others how to live,” Mr. Trump said. “But to build a coalition of friends and partners who share the goal of fighting terrorism and bringing safety, opportunity and stability to the war-ravaged Middle East.”
Mr. Trump has made fighting the Islamic State and forging peace in the Middle East a focus of his foreign policy.
Mr. Trump’s first stop will be Saudi Arabia, where the president said he will take part in a “truly historic gathering” that will include “leaders from across the Muslim world.”
“We will begin to construct a new foundation of cooperation and support with our Muslim allies to combat extremism, terrorism and violence,” Mr. Trump said.
Barack Obama, Mr. Trump’s predecessor, had a testy relationship with Saudi Arabia, which vehemently opposed his rapprochement with Iran.
Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s powerful Deputy Crown Prince, met Mr. Trump in Washington in March in a visit a senior Saudi adviser called an “historical turning point” in relations. Mr. Trump will then head to Israel.
Mr. Trump has vowed to help put an end to the near 70-year-long conflict. Mr. Trump is counting on Gulf allies to spearhead the ideological battle against the Islamic State, as well as participate in military efforts.
Mr. Trump will then head to Italy, where he is expected to meet with Pope Francis at the Vatican.
The trip will end with a day-long meeting with NATO leaders in advance of a long-planned summit in Istanbul next year.
Mr. Trump and the pope have similar agendas in terms of uniting the three main religions in the Middle East. Making peace is something that U.S. presidents have tried to do for decades without success. Peace will not happen without papal cooperation.
“By peace he shall destroy many.” Daniel 8:25.