I think it's too late for the Saudis and UAE to make a difference at this point. What is there that they bring to the table that we cannot? The time for their participation to matter has sailed long ago. I don't see how we can improve our position at all anymore without a tidal wave of overwhelming force. And no one has the stomach for that anymore. We dithered, and we will pay the price.
As for your last sentence, I hold zero belief that Trump's mind has the depth to understand and apply the strategic principles you allude to. It's just not who he is. He has balls and charisma and luck, but he is not a bright man. I've said it a thousand times, but if he would just listen to advisors, he would be wildly successful.
