Qatar defends $400m jet gift to Trump amid Senate bill

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Qatar's Defense of the $400 Million Jet "Gift" to Trump

Qatar has publicly defended its involvement in the controversial $400 million luxury jet arrangement with the United States, clarifying that the deal is not a straightforward "gift" to President Trump but rather a temporary transfer under negotiation between the two governments. This comes amid intense scrutiny in Washington and a proposed Senate bill aiming to block the transaction.

Qatar's Position

Qatari officials have emphasized that the aircraft's transfer is a "normal thing between allies," denying any attempt to "buy influence" with the U.S. or President Trump. The Qatari government stated that the deal is being discussed at the defense ministry level and is subject to ongoing legal review. They insist the arrangement is for the "temporary use" of the plane, not a personal gift to Trump, and that no final decision has been made. Qatari sources also revealed that the Trump administration was the first to approach Qatar about the possibility of acquiring the jet, countering the narrative that Qatar initiated the offer.

Trump Administration's Response

President Trump and his administration have vigorously defended the plan. Trump insists the jet—a Boeing 747-8 valued at $400 million—is being given to the Department of Defense, not to him personally, and will serve as a stopgap Air Force One while the U.S. waits for delayed Boeing replacements. Trump has argued that accepting the jet is a cost-saving measure and that the arrangement is "completely transparent." He has also stated that after his term, the aircraft would be transferred to his presidential library foundation, not retained for personal use.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated that any gift from a foreign government is accepted "in strict accordance with all applicable regulations," and emphasized the administration's commitment to transparency. The Justice Department reportedly drafted a memo supporting the legality of the Department of Defense accepting the jet, though this memo has not been made public.

Political and Legal Backlash

The deal has sparked bipartisan concern in Congress. Republican Senator Susan Collins and others have raised alarms about potential national security risks, the need for thorough inspection to prevent espionage, and the ethical implications of accepting such a lavish foreign gift. Democratic lawmakers argue the arrangement violates the Constitution's Foreign Emoluments Clause, which bars public officials from accepting gifts from foreign states without congressional approval. Senate Democrats have introduced a resolution to block related arms sales to Qatar in protest, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has threatened to hold up Justice Department nominees as leverage.

Summary Table: Key Points of the Controversy

Conclusion

Qatar is defending the $400 million jet arrangement as a standard act between allies and denies any intent to sway U.S. policy. The Trump administration maintains the deal is legal, transparent, and in the national interest, while critics in Congress warn of constitutional violations and national security risks. The controversy remains unresolved, with legal and legislative challenges ongoing.

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Produced By: Cyborg Wealth

Researched By: Malik Rafaiy