As Trump heads to the Middle East, fixing explosive crises takes a back seat to deal-making [Video]

In the days before his trip overseas, U.S. President Donald Trump moved rapidly to tamp down a long list of potential distractions that could overshadow his hugely significant visit to the Middle East.

Help broker a shaky ceasefire between nuclear powers India and Pakistan. Check.

Outline a plan to feed starving Gaza, even though international humanitarian groups have deemed it unworkable and insufficient. Check.

And obtain a promise from Houthi militants to stop attacking western shipping in the Red Sea, even though missile launches against Israel continue. Check.

Given the chaotic nature of his presidency and the surreal speed at which global events seem to move with Trump in charge at the White House, the quick wins he’s seeking may be fleeting.

Nonetheless, Trump is poised to arrive in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday on the first big international trip of his second term at both a precarious and opportune time.