The controversy over Qatar’s offer to donate a VIP 747-8 to the U.S. has drawn criticism from both Trump opponents and his supporters who oppose Qatar’s Islamist regime.
While Trump mocked Democrats on Truth Social for attacking his acceptance of the plane, claiming it was "free," critics argue the hidden costs are far higher.
Accepting Qatar’s gift risks legitimizing a state long linked to terrorism against the U.S., including the World Trade Center bombings, the Bojinka plot, and the killing of journalist Daniel Pearl. Critics warn Qatar is exploiting U.S. desires for peace and economic recovery to whitewash its Islamist record and secure influence.
This pattern isn’t unique to Qatar. Across the Muslim world, America is increasingly seen partnering with Islamist regimes under the guise of transactional diplomacy. Turkey’s President Erdoğan, who allowed ISIS fighters through his territory, continues to harbor anti-American and antisemitic sentiment, yet remains a U.S. ally. Trump’s reported lifting of sanctions on Syria’s new jihadist rulers, allies of Qatar and Turkey, reinforces this dangerous trend.