 "Who is Trump's family member Massad Boulos, named Middle East advisor in incoming Cabinet")
President-elect Donald Trump has named Massad Boulos, a Lebanese-American businessman and the father-in-law of his daughter Tiffany, as senior advisor on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs, placing a close family connection at the heart of a challenging foreign policy portfolio.
Boulos played a key role in Trump’s campaign, particularly in outreach to Arab American and Muslim voters. His efforts aimed to attract support from groups disillusioned with current US policies in the region, including the ongoing war in Gaza.
Trump described Boulos as a “respected leader in the business world with extensive international experience” and referred to him as a “dealmaker” capable of fostering connections and building coalitions.
The appointment gives Boulos significant influence over US policy in the West Asia, a region facing major challenges. These include Israel’s war in Gaza, a tenuous ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon, and escalating conflict in Syria, where rebel forces have made gains against Bashar al-Assad’s government.
Ties to Trump family
Boulos is the father of Michael Boulos, who married Tiffany Trump in 2022. His selection follows Trump’s recent nomination of Charles Kushner, the father of his son-in-law Jared Kushner, as US ambassador to France.
The choice highlights the prominent roles family connections are expected to play in the incoming administration.
Career and political involvement
Boulos’s career spans the legal and business sectors, with a focus on international affairs. Though he has not held public office, he has been a vocal advocate for conservative Republican values and has built ties within the Arab American community.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsHis involvement in Trump’s campaign was instrumental in mobilising support from this demographic.
Policy challenges ahead
Boulos’s new role places him at the center of efforts to address some of the Middle East’s most intractable issues. Trump has pledged to end conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, but has yet to provide specifics on how his administration plans to achieve these goals.
With decades of experience in business negotiations, Boulos is expected to bring a pragmatic approach to the Middle East advisor position. However, his appointment has drawn scrutiny for its close familial ties, raising questions about the blending of personal and official relationships in the Trump administration.
With inputs from agencies
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