Massad Boulos: The Lebanese American Businessman Shaping U.S…

Massad Boulos has been appointed by President-elect Donald Trump as a senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs. As Trump’s son-in-law, his role combines personal ties and his established influence within the automotive business and relations in the Middle East. His appointment could have significant implications for U.S. foreign policy in the region, particularly regarding crises in Lebanon and surrounding areas.

Massad Boulos, a prominent Lebanese American businessman, has been appointed as a senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs for President-elect Donald J. Trump. As the father-in-law of Tiffany Trump, Mr. Boulos’ recent ascent to influence presents him with a unique opportunity to shape U.S. policy in the Middle East during a precarious time marred by conflicts in Lebanon, Syria, and the Gaza Strip. His role is seen as pivotal not only because of his familial ties but also due to his engagement with Arab American communities and Middle Eastern leaders.

Originating from Kafaraka, Lebanon, Mr. Boulos comes from a notable Greek Orthodox family, with historical ties to local politics. While he has dabbled in politics, he maintains independence from any political affiliations in Lebanon and is chiefly known for his connections to Lebanon’s Christian elite, including alliances with figures linked to Hezbollah and the Syrian government. Educated in Texas, he established a successful automotive business in West Africa, leading the automotive conglomerate SCOA Nigeria and Boulos Enterprise.

His network includes key Middle Eastern leaders, and he has been used informally to facilitate communications between Trump and these figures. During the recent election campaign, Mr. Boulos worked to rally support for Mr. Trump among Arab Americans, particularly in Michigan, a crucial state during the elections. His appointment has generated optimism among Lebanese politicians, with some expressing hope for enhanced attention towards Lebanon’s pressing issues amidst the ongoing crisis in the region.

Massad Boulos has emerged as a significant figure in U.S.-Middle East relations following his recent appointment as a senior adviser to Donald Trump. As the father-in-law of one of Trump’s daughters, his influence stems from both family connections and his business acumen in the automotive sector in Africa. His unique background as a Lebanese national and his ties to various political figures in Lebanon position him as a useful conduit for dialogue between the U.S. and Middle Eastern leaders amid ongoing regional tensions.

In summary, Massad Boulos’s selection as a senior adviser by President-elect Trump underscores the potential strategic importance of his business background and personal connections in shaping U.S. policy towards the Middle East. His previous experiences engaging with leaders in both the U.S. and the region could foster new dialogues and opportunities for addressing complex challenges. The optimism expressed by Lebanese officials may signal a shift in U.S. focus towards Lebanon and Arab issues in the forthcoming administration.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com