Prince in the town: Prince Salman lands in US for Camp David Meet

Manama

His Royal Highness Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa yesterday arrived at the Andrews Base in Washington DC to participate in the Camp David Meet amidst a tumultuous welcome. 

He’s slated to meet US president Barack Obama, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef along with other GCC leaders today.

Meanwhile, the US administration yesterday clarified that right leaders were attending the Camp David Meet which is being  held in the backdrop of Iran’s growing influence in the Gulf region.

Terming Camp David Meet as a  “working meeting” rather than a “symbolic get-together,” Obama said he would explore the possibility of a ceasefire in Yemen with the GCC leaders besides working for the restoration of a legitimate government in Yemen where the Iran-backed Huthis are now being bombarded by Saudi-led coalition.

Experts predict that the White House would offer the Gulf nations more military assistance, including increased joint exercises and coordination on ballistic missile systems. 

However, Obama won’t commit anything on nuclear negotiations, which top the agenda at the Camp David Meet. Experts foresee the possibility of US assuring the GCC Nations that it would stand by them in the event of any Iranian aggression. As Prince Salman heads the Bahraini delegation at the crucial meet, as of now it is not certain how the mellowed-down approach of the US would be received by the apprehensive GCC nations.  Much would depend on today’s outcome.