Qatar Speaks Out on Giving Plane to Trump

A top Qatari official described the offer of a plane to President Donald Trump as a "government-to-government transaction" and not a personal gift as the US president visited the country in a high-profile Middle East tour.

Newsweek has reached out to the White House for comment.

Why It Matters

Trump sparked ethical and legal criticism after considering whether to accept the offer of the Boeing 747-8 to serve as Air Force One. Qatar's proposal also adds a new twist to a $3.9 billion saga that began in 2018, when Boeing fell behind schedule on an agreed delivery of two new custom 747-8s—frustrating Trump.

What To Know

Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani told CNN's Becky Anderson there was no reason for uproar over the plane.

The plane is estimated to be worth $400 million and the offer has drawn debate over whether it amounts to foreign influence, possibly violating constitutional restrictions on gifts to sitting presidents.

The Qatari official dismissed accusations of buying influence, saying Qatar has been a reliable partner for the U.S. when needed, including in its war against terror, the evacuation in Afghanistan and releasing hostages from different countries in the world.

Trump stated that the Boeing 747-8 would serve as the official presidential aircraft and, according to multiple reports, would be transferred to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation after he leaves office.

Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates have been selected as Trump's destinations for his first overseas trip since his presidential re-election with huge investments pledged from his Gulf partners.

During the visit, Qatar signed a $200 billion deal to purchase 160 jets from Boeing.

What People Are Saying

U.S. President Donald Trump on Truth Social, Wednesday: "The Boeing 747 is being given to the United States Air Force/Department of Defense, NOT TO ME! It is a gift from a Nation, Qatar, that we have successfully defended for many years. It will be used by our Government as a temporary Air Force One, until such time as our new Boeings, which are very late on delivery, arrive."

Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani told CNN's Becky Anderson in an interview: "I know there were a lot of speculation about this topic. I don't know what is the reason that instigates this. This is a very simple government-to-government dealing."

What Happens Next

With a decision yet to be made, potential investigations and legal challenges could be launched to the offer of the plane.