Trump appoints Massad Boulos as senior adviser on Middle East affairs

Washington: US President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Lebanese-American businessman Massad Boulos, the father-in-law of his daughter Tiffany Trump, as a senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs. Trump announced the appointment on TRUTHSocial, praising Boulos as an accomplished lawyer and respected business leader with significant international experience. He highlighted Boulos's support for Republican and Conservative values and his efforts to strengthen ties with the Arab American community, describing him as a “dealmaker” and a strong advocate for peace in the Middle East.

Boulos has played a key role in engaging the Arab-American community, organizing meetings across Michigan and other areas with large Arab populations. His involvement was significant in mobilizing Arab American and Muslim voters, especially those discontented with President Joe Biden’s continued support for Israel during the Gaza conflict, which resulted in a high civilian death toll.

Boulos will take on the challenging role amid the ongoing war in Gaza, fragile ceasefire efforts between Israel and Hezbollah facing early violations, and rebel advances against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government. Boulos, who is part of the Christian Maronite community, has previously attempted to run for a seat in the Lebanese Parliament without success. His family operates at least two automotive parts distribution companies in Nigeria.

In an October interview with Sky News, Boulos emphasized the need for a swift resolution to the conflict, noting military objectives aimed at neutralizing Hamas’s infrastructure. He also spoke about the importance of peace and reconstruction in Gaza and Lebanon, advocating for prosperity and security for the Palestinian people and harmonious coexistence with Israelis.

Trump has faced criticism for making controversial appointments to his incoming administration. On Saturday, he also nominated Charles Kushner, the father of his son-in-law Jared Kushner, as his pick for US ambassador to France, and Kash Patel, a loyal supporter, as the next director of the FBI. Patel is known for promoting the idea of an anti-Trump “deep state” and has written a book on the subject.

--IANS

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