Security Concerns Arise Over Plane Gift From Qatar to Trump

WASHINGTON—Republican lawmakers on Tuesday raised national-security concerns regarding a proposed $400 million plane from the Qatari royal family intended to be used as Air Force One. This comes as President Trump strongly defends the offer, insisting that only a “fool” would decline it.

Several Republican members of Congress, particularly those on committees overseeing armed services and intelligence, are expressing doubts about security protocols. They warn that if the transfer proceeds, the White House could face extensive questions about potential foreign surveillance technologies embedded in the aircraft. The lawmakers highlighted the costs and challenges of ensuring the plane meets U.S. specifications, including the ability to refuel midair and host advanced communication technologies.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R., S.D.) stated there will be “plenty of scrutiny” surrounding the transaction, noting, “There are lots of issues around that that I think will attract very serious questions if and when it happens.”

While Democrats have reacted with stronger opposition, labeling the offer as ethically and constitutionally questionable, the Republican concerns showcase fissures within Trump’s party in Congress. Conservative commentators have also criticized the deal, with Ben Shapiro calling it “skeezy” and Laura Loomer dismissing it as an unacceptable gift from “jihadists in suits.”

As Trump embarks on a visit to the Middle East, with plans to meet Qatari officials, these security objections might overshadow his trip. Senator Todd Young (R., Ind.) underscored the risks associated with such a gift. “I have concerns whenever you accept a gift from a foreign country—even those that we perceive to be the closest of allies,” he remarked.

Trump reiterated his support for the plane on his social media platform Tuesday night, asserting that it would be a gift to the Department of Defense and save taxpayers money. He described it as “a beautiful gesture” in an interview, criticizing detractors as “stupid.”

Qatar’s offer comes amid Trump’s annoyance with delays in receiving new jets from Boeing. As part of the proposed arrangement, the plane would be modified by a U.S. defense contractor to suit presidential needs and eventually displayed at Trump’s presidential library.

Concerns regarding the aircraft’s capabilities and security were echoed by various senators. Senator Susan Collins (R., Maine) expressed worry about potential listening devices, while Senator John Cornyn (R., Texas) recognized the need for thorough inspections of the plane.

Despite skepticism from some senators about the feasibility of the plane meeting the necessary specifications for presidential use, others, like Senator Markwayne Mullin (R., Okla.), dismissed security concerns, claiming modifications would leave only the aircraft’s frame intact.

The debate carries significant implications, as Trump’s acceptance of the donation may violate the Emoluments Clause of the Constitution, which prevents public officials from receiving gifts from foreign states. Legal experts warn that the arrangement could set a troubling precedent for future U.S. foreign relations and ethics.