The Headlines The Trump Family’s Saudi Business Ties, and Hundreds of Gazans on Mystery Flights
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Nov 18, 2025 
Vivian Nereim, Gulf Bureau Chief at The New York Times, dives into the complex web of the Trump family's business dealings in Saudi Arabia. She discusses the potential sale of F-35s to the Saudis amid Pentagon concerns and political dynamics. The conversation shifts to the implications of mysterious flights bringing hundreds of Gazans to South Africa, raising questions about their purpose. Nereim also sheds light on the U.N.'s approval of the U.S. Gaza peace plan and the planning efforts happening at an American-run base.
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Trump Family’s Saudi Business Entanglements
- The Trump family has multiple and growing business ties to Saudi Arabia, including Trump-branded developments and connections to Jared Kushner's deals.
- Those links raise ethical concerns and potential conflicts of interest as the crown prince seeks major bilateral deals.
F-35 Sale Despite Pentagon Concerns
- President Trump said he plans to sell F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia despite Pentagon warnings about risks to stealth technology.
- The move could risk sensitive capabilities given Saudi ties to China and will face potential Congressional pushback.
Political Pressure Forces Release Shift
- The House is expected to unanimously back releasing the Epstein files after constituent pressure and GOP private warnings to Trump.
- Trump then publicly supported release, highlighting how political pressure can force rare presidential reversals.