Donald Trump Appoints Massad Boulos as Senior Advisor On Middle Eastern Affairs
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has named Lebanese-American businessman Massad Boulos as his senior advisor on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs, a move signaling his administration’s intention to engage more closely with Arab-American communities and Middle Eastern diplomacy.
“I am proud to announce that Massad Boulos will serve as Senior Advisor to the President on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs,” Trump stated on Truth Social. Boulos, the father-in-law of Trump’s daughter Tiffany, played a pivotal role in the campaign by mobilizing Arab-American and Muslim voters dissatisfied with President Joe Biden’s handling of the Gaza conflict.
Challenges Awaiting Boulos
Boulos takes on a complex portfolio amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The war in Gaza continues to escalate, the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon remains fragile, and rebel forces in Syria are making gains against the government of Bashar al-Assad.
Trump lauded Boulos as “a dealmaker” and an accomplished lawyer with significant international business experience. “He has been a longtime proponent of Republican and Conservative values… and was instrumental in building tremendous new coalitions with the Arab American Community,” Trump noted.
Trump’s Foreign Policy Vision
On the campaign trail, Trump repeatedly promised to bring a swift end to conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and other global hotspots. Boulos, echoing Trump’s sentiments, emphasized the need for a speedy resolution during an October interview with Sky News.
“We need to accomplish military objectives quickly and move towards peace and reconstruction,” Boulos said. He advocated for a prosperous Gaza and harmonious coexistence between Palestinians and Israelis, emphasizing security for both sides.
Family Ties in Leadership
The appointment of Boulos continues a pattern of Trump selecting close family members or loyalists for key positions. Boulos is not the first relative to assume a prominent role; real estate executive Charles Kushner, father of Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, was recently nominated as U.S. ambassador to France.
Critics have raised concerns over Trump’s choices, often highlighting a preference for loyalty and personal connections over traditional qualifications. Notably, Charles Kushner previously served time in federal prison for tax evasion before being pardoned by Trump in 2020.
A Divisive Administration in the Making
With the appointment of Kash Patel as the next FBI director and other controversial picks, Trump’s incoming administration is already drawing scrutiny. Despite this, Trump remains steadfast in his selections, viewing them as essential to his vision for governance.
Boulos, a member of the Christian Maronite community, also has strong ties to Nigeria through his family’s automotive parts distribution businesses. His past political aspirations in Lebanon and his business acumen may play a role in his approach to his new advisory role.
As Boulos steps into his position, his ability to navigate the volatile Middle Eastern political landscape and deliver on Trump’s campaign promises will likely define his tenure.
