President-elect Trump announced on Sunday his decision to appoint Massad Boulos, a Lebanese billionaire and father-in-law to Tiffany Trump, as his senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs.
In a message shared on Truth Social, Trump praised Boulos as a skilled lawyer and influential business leader with major international experience. Highlighting Boulos’s advocacy for Republican and conservative principles, Trump credited him with fostering strong connections with the Arab American community.
Trump credits Boulos for strengthening Arab American voter ties in Michigan
He described Boulos as a dealmaker and steadfast advocate for Middle Eastern peace, emphasizing his commitment to promoting U.S. interests. Tiffany Trump, the youngest of Trump’s children, wed Michael Boulos in 2022, with the president-elect escorting her down the aisle. This announcement adds Boulos to the list of Trump’s family connections securing key roles in his administration.
A day earlier, Trump revealed his intent to nominate Charles Kushner, Jared Kushner’s father, as the ambassador to France. Unlike during Trump’s first term, neither Jared Kushner nor Ivanka Trump are anticipated to serve in the upcoming administration.
Boulos was instrumental in mobilizing Arab American voters in Michigan, a pivotal swing state that Trump secured once more. As a billionaire and leader of SCOA Nigeria, a family-run automotive enterprise, he brings business acumen to the role. His influence is expected to extend to Trump’s peace efforts in the Middle East.
The region has seen heightened conflict since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7. Israel’s military response in Gaza escalated tensions, with intermittent missile exchanges involving Iran. Despite the volatile situation, a ceasefire was recently reached between Israel and Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group in Lebanon.
