U.S. President Donald Trump has named Lebanese-American businessman Massad Boulos as his senior advisor on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs. The announcement, made on Sunday via Trump’s Truth Social account, appoints Boulos, the father-in-law of Trump’s daughter Tiffany, to a prominent White House role.
“I am proud to announce that Massad Boulos will serve as Senior Advisor to the President on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs,” Trump stated, praising Boulos’s international business expertise and commitment to Republican values.
Boulos, a key figure in the Trump campaign, played a significant role in mobilizing Arab American and Muslim voters, many of whom criticized President Joe Biden’s unwavering support for Israel during the Gaza war. The appointment comes amidst a complex geopolitical climate, with ongoing conflicts in Gaza, a tenuous ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, and escalating tensions in Syria.
Boulos will oversee a challenging portfolio, navigating regional instability while aiming to bolster Arab-American relations.
A “Dealmaker” with Strong Ties to Arab Communities
Trump referred to Boulos as a “dealmaker,” highlighting his efforts to build coalitions within the Arab American community. “Massad is an accomplished lawyer and a highly respected leader in the business world, with extensive international experience,” Trump said. “He has been instrumental in building new coalitions with Arab Americans and promoting Republican values.”
Boulos’s family operates automotive parts businesses in Nigeria, and he has a history of political involvement, including an unsuccessful bid for a seat in Lebanon’s parliament.
Controversial Appointments
The appointment follows Trump’s trend of choosing close allies and family connections for key positions. On Saturday, he named Charles Kushner, father of Jared Kushner, as U.S. Ambassador to France. Additionally, Trump selected loyalist Kash Patel as the next FBI director, raising concerns about the criteria for such appointments.
Boulos’s appointment underscores Trump’s focus on loyalty and alignment with his policies, even as critics question the experience and expertise of his appointees.
A Vision for Middle East Peace
Boulos has expressed a desire to address regional conflicts swiftly. In a recent interview, he emphasized the need to dismantle Hamas’s infrastructure while promoting peace and rebuilding efforts in Gaza and Lebanon. “We want Gaza and its people to prosper and coexist peacefully alongside Israel with full security for both sides,” Boulos said.
This appointment signals Trump’s commitment to addressing Middle Eastern issues while solidifying ties with Arab-American communities.
