Former U.S. President Donald Trump has appointed Lebanese-American businessman Massad Boulos as his senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs. The announcement underscores Trump’s efforts to strengthen ties with the Arab world as he positions himself for a potential return to the White House.
“I am proud to announce that Massad Boulos will serve as Senior Advisor to the President on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, highlighting the appointment of his daughter Tiffany’s father-in-law to a prominent advisory role.
Who is Massad Boulos?
Massad Boulos is a successful businessman with a background in real estate, manufacturing, and international trade. Born in Lebanon, Boulos emigrated to the United States in the 1970s and built a global business empire. His family has significant investments in Nigeria and across Africa, earning him recognition as a key figure in international commerce.
Boulos is taking on a challenging role amid escalating conflicts in the region. Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, a fragile ceasefire in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah, and renewed rebel activity in Syria highlight the complexities of his new position.
Notably, Boulos’s son Michael is married to Trump’s daughter Tiffany, adding a personal dimension to his appointment. This move follows Trump’s recent naming of Charles Kushner, father of his son-in-law Jared Kushner, as U.S. ambassador to France.
Strategic Significance
Boulos’s appointment reflects Trump’s intent to prioritize Middle Eastern affairs, focusing on economic diplomacy and regional partnerships. Trump’s administration previously brokered the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations. Analysts see Boulos’s deep regional connections and business expertise as assets for advancing these initiatives.
The new adviser is expected to focus on key issues, including maintaining the Abraham Accords’ momentum, addressing conflicts in Gaza and Syria, and tackling Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Trump also emphasized Boulos’s ability to build coalitions within the Arab-American community, calling him “a dealmaker” and a strong advocate for conservative values.
Reactions and Challenges
The appointment has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters laud Boulos’s regional expertise and potential to foster dialogue, while critics question his lack of political experience in navigating the Middle East’s complex geopolitics.
Trump’s Middle East policies during his presidency were marked by support for Israel and opposition to Iran, highlighted by the Abraham Accords. However, these policies also faced criticism for sidelining Palestinian concerns and heightening regional tensions.
Looking Ahead
As Trump prepares for another possible presidential campaign, Boulos’s success in this role will likely hinge on his ability to deliver tangible results. Whether his appointment signals a new chapter in U.S.-Middle East relations or serves as a symbolic gesture remains to be seen.
Massad Boulos, described by Trump as “a respected leader in the business world,” now faces the challenge of navigating a volatile region while building on Trump’s legacy of economic diplomacy and regional alliances.