Qatar has officially denied recent reports suggesting that the Trump administration is set to receive a luxury jet from the country’s royal family. ABC News had earlier indicated that a super luxury Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet was being considered for President Donald Trump as a potential Air Force One replacement, with plans for it to be donated to his presidential library foundation for future use.
However, Ali Al-Ansari, Qatar’s Media Attaché to the U.S., has clarified that these reports are inaccurate. He stated, “The possible transfer of an aircraft for temporary use as Air Force One is currently under consideration between Qatar’s Ministry of Defense and the U.S. Department of Defense. Still, the matter is undergoing review by respective legal departments, and no final decision has been reached at this time.”
Speculations and Clarifications
The aircraft in question holds a value of $400 million, as reported by ABC, and was initially expected to be announced during Trump’s upcoming visit to the Middle East. However, sources familiar with the situation have indicated that no such announcement is scheduled during the said visit.
A U.S. official, privy to the discussions, confirmed that talks had taken place regarding the emir of Qatar potentially gifting the plane to Trump for use as Air Force One. Additionally, a former U.S. official familiar with the developments mentioned that the discussions involved the Qatari defense ministry and the Pentagon. Both sources requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.
Response from Democrats
Certain key Democrats, citing the Emoluments Clause of the Constitution, swiftly reacted to the news, accusing Trump and his administration of engaging in corrupt practices and bribery. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the potential scenario, highlighting the implications of accepting such a lavish gift from a foreign entity.
Senator Adam Schiff raised concerns about the legality of accepting a substantial gift from a foreign emir without Congressional approval, as stipulated in the Emoluments Clause of the Constitution. He emphasized the need for transparency and adherence to constitutional norms.
As this story continues to unfold, stay tuned for further updates and clarifications on the alleged luxury jet gift to President Trump.
