Trump Bashes NBC Over Qatar Jet Inquiry During Press Conference
President Trump confronted an NBC reporter regarding a Qatari Boeing 747 gift to the US Air Force during a press conference with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. Trump used the exchange to criticize the media, linking it to broader issues, including violence against white farmers in South Africa. The Pentagon confirmed acceptance of the aircraft, while concerns over legality were noted.
In a fiery exchange at the White House, President Donald Trump confronted an NBC reporter about the Pentagon’s acceptance of a Boeing 747 from Qatar, earmarked to serve as a temporary Air Force One. This incident occurred during a meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, after Trump had previously shown a video that spotlighted violent incidents against white farmers in South Africa.
During the press conference, the NBC reporter, believed to be Peter Alexander, posed a question concerning the Qatari jet. This was met with Trump’s outburst, as he dismissed the inquiry as irrelevant, stating, “What are you talking about? You know, you ought to get out of here.” He insisted that discussions should focus on broader topics and characterized the jet gift as a significant benefit for the United States Air Force.
Trump did not stop there. He criticized both the reporter and NBC’s management heavily, declaring, “You’re a terrible reporter. No. 1, you don’t have what it takes to be a reporter. You’re not smart enough.” Further condemning NBC, he stated, “Go back to your studio at NBC because Brian Roberts and the people that run that place they ought to be investigated. And you are a disgrace. No more questions from you.”
On social media, Trump reiterated his stance regarding the Boeing 747, clarifying that it was not a gift to him personally but rather a donation to the US Air Force. He specified, “It is a gift from a nation, Qatar. It will be used by our Government as a temporary Air Force One, until such time as our new Boeings arrive.”
Despite Trump’s strong remarks, the Pentagon confirmed the acceptance of the aircraft amidst concerns regarding legality and foreign influence. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell commented that the Department of Defense would ensure that proper security measures are in place for the aircraft’s presidential use, affirming that “the plane was accepted by all federal rules and regulations.”
President Trump’s clash with an NBC reporter over the Qatari jet highlights his contentious relationship with the media and the complexities surrounding gifts to the US Air Force. While the Pentagon has confirmed the jet’s acceptance, Trump’s remarks raise questions about journalistic integrity and the scrutiny of foreign influences on American defense. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions between the White House and the press, particularly regarding how issues are presented to the public.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
