Donald Trump has criticised a Gulf ally over its nuclear discussions with Iran, raising fresh questions about Washington’s expectations for diplomacy with Tehran. The US president’s reported remarks suggest that the White House wants to remain closely involved in any engagement involving Iran’s nuclear programme. What prompted Trump’s reaction, which Gulf country is at the centre of the dispute, and what could this mean for regional diplomacy? As tensions and negotiations continue to shape the Middle East, the latest developments highlight the delicate balance between US influence, Gulf security interests and efforts to address Iran’s nuclear ambitions.