Trump Seals Qatar Deals on Boeing and Defense Amid Air Force One Controversy

President Donald Trump inked a series of high-stakes agreements with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Doha on Wednesday, signaling a bold step in U.S.-Qatar relations. The deals include Qatar’s commitment to purchase Boeing aircraft, letters of intent for joint cooperation, and an agreement to acquire MQ-9 drone aircraft. These moves, described by the emir as elevating ties to "another level," underscore a deepening partnership amid a complex geopolitical landscape.

Yet, the spotlight isn’t just on trade and defense. Trump’s visit coincides with swirling controversy over a potential free jumbo jet offered by Qatar to replace the aging Air Force One. The proposal has sparked bipartisan backlash, with critics like Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) raising alarms over Qatar’s past ties to Hamas and concerns for presidential safety. Trump, unfazed, has dismissed the criticism, pointing to Boeing’s delays in delivering a new Air Force One fleet.

Qatar’s role on the world stage adds layers to this story. Once accused by Trump in 2017 of funding terrorism, the Gulf nation has transformed into a major non-NATO ally by 2022, hosting the U.S.’s sprawling Al Udeid Air Base. Doha’s negotiators have also been pivotal in peace talks, from brokering a hostage release in Gaza to securing the freedom of American Edan Alexander from Hamas just days ago. Meanwhile, the Trump Organization is diving deeper into Qatar’s economy, sealing a deal for a luxury golf resort with a state-backed real estate giant.

These agreements mark a pragmatic, if contentious, pivot in U.S. foreign policy. As Trump navigates this delicate dance with Doha, the world watches to see if economic gains and strategic alliances can outweigh the shadows of past tensions.