Donald Trump, the U.S. President-elect, announced the appointment of Lebanese-American businessman Massad Boulos as Senior Advisor on Arab and Middle Eastern Affairs. Trump shared the news on Truth Social, expressing pride in naming Boulos, who is also the father-in-law of Trump’s daughter Tiffany, to the influential White House position.
Boulos played a significant role in the Trump campaign, successfully engaging Arab American and Muslim voters, many of whom were critical of President Joe Biden’s unwavering support for Israel during the Gaza conflict, which resulted in extensive civilian casualties.
As Senior Advisor, Boulos faces complex challenges, including the ongoing conflict in Gaza, violations of a tenuous ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, and advancing rebel forces in Syria against Bashar al-Assad’s government.
Trump lauded Boulos as an accomplished lawyer, a respected business leader, and a staunch proponent of Republican values. He referred to him as a “dealmaker” instrumental in forming alliances with the Arab American community.
This announcement follows Trump’s selection of Charles Kushner, Jared Kushner’s father, as U.S. Ambassador to France, continuing his trend of appointing family members and associates to prominent roles.
Boulos has expressed hopes for swift resolutions to ongoing conflicts, emphasizing rebuilding efforts in Gaza and Lebanon and advocating for peaceful coexistence between Palestinians and Israelis. His family is known for operating automotive parts distribution companies in Nigeria.
