Who Is Massad Boulos? Trump Names Lebanese-American Businessman As His Middle East Advisor

Donald Trump, the US President-elect, has appointed Massad Boulos as Senior Advisor to the President on Arab and Middle Eastern Affairs. Announcing the decision on Truth Social, Trump described Boulos as a “highly respected leader in the business world” with significant international experience.

This appointment places Boulos, the father-in-law of Trump’s daughter Tiffany, in a vital advisory role as the administration prepares to address ongoing challenges in the Middle East.

Key Role in the Campaign

Boulos played a significant role during Trump’s campaign, particularly in mobilizing Arab-American and Muslim voters. Many within these communities expressed dissatisfaction with previous White House policies on Middle Eastern conflicts, particularly the war in Gaza.

Trump praised Boulos as a “dealmaker” and credited him with building strong coalitions with Arab-American communities, further emphasizing his Republican and conservative values.

Challenges Ahead

Boulos faces a complex portfolio, including Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, violations of a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, and advances by rebel forces in Syria against the Bashar al-Assad government.

Family Connections in the Administration

This appointment follows Trump’s nomination of Charles Kushner, the father of his son-in-law Jared Kushner, as the US ambassador to France. The inclusion of family members’ relatives in significant roles reflects Trump’s reliance on trusted figures within his circle.

Promises for Middle East Peace

During his campaign, Trump vowed to end wars in Gaza, Ukraine, and other conflict zones swiftly, though he provided little detail on his strategies. Boulos’s appointment signals a potential shift in Trump’s approach to addressing the complex dynamics of the Middle East.