Sidebar Can Trump accept a plane from Qatar?
May 13, 2025
Abigail Hauslohner, a national security reporter for The Washington Post with extensive experience in the Middle East, dives into President Trump's Middle Eastern trip. She discusses his controversial meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the implications of his skipped meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. The legalities of accepting a 747 jet from Qatar come into play, raising questions about foreign gifts to a former president. Hauslohner also touches on the complexities of U.S.-Saudi relations and ongoing humanitarian concerns.
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Transactional Diplomacy in Middle East
- Trump's Middle East trip heavily focuses on transactional deals, emphasizing money and business over traditional diplomacy.
- Saudi Arabia gains legitimacy and a closer relationship with Trump despite human rights controversies.
Emoluments Clause and Qatari Plane
- Trump is constitutionally barred from accepting gifts from foreign governments without Congress consent.
- His announcement about accepting a Qatari plane raised significant legal and ethical questions.
Embarrassing Netanyahu Story
- Netanyahu brought suitcases of dirty laundry when visiting Trump, a detail leaked during Trump's first term.
- Trump surprised Netanyahu with nuclear talks announcement without prior notice, causing visible discomfort.