In a bold move reflecting his loyalty to close family members, President-elect Donald Trump has appointed two in-laws to prominent foreign policy positions in his incoming administration. Over the weekend, Trump named Massad Boulos as a senior adviser on Middle Eastern affairs and nominated Charles Kushner, his son-in-law’s father, to serve as U.S. ambassador to France.
Boulos, a Lebanese auto magnate and father-in-law to Trump’s daughter Tiffany, will take on the critical role of advising the president on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs. His experience in both business and diplomacy is seen as an asset as he navigates complex issues in the region, including the fragile US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Boulos, who has been involved in supporting Trump among Arab-American communities in Michigan, brings a dealmaker’s approach to foreign diplomacy, something Trump values deeply.
Kushner, the 70-year-old real estate mogul and major donor to Trump’s 2024 campaign, has been tapped as ambassador to France. The appointment comes at a sensitive time for US-France relations, as Trump has been vocal in his criticism of European allies for not spending enough on defense. Kushner’s past legal issues, including a presidential pardon for tax evasion, campaign finance violations, and witness tampering, have not dampened his influence within the Trump administration.
The nomination of Kushner and Boulos underscores Trump’s commitment to placing trusted allies and family members in key diplomatic roles. While neither has traditional diplomatic experience, both are expected to leverage their business acumen and close relationships to advance U.S. interests on the global stage.
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump praised Boulos as “a dealmaker, and an unwavering supporter of peace in the Middle East,” expressing confidence in his ability to advocate for the U.S. in the region.
Boulos’ ties to Lebanon’s Christian political elite, including key figures in the ongoing negotiations over Lebanon’s presidential vacancy, will likely play a crucial role in shaping the U.S. approach to Lebanon and Israel in the coming years. Despite his non-diplomatic background, Boulos’ business and political network, combined with his commitment to peace in the region, could provide valuable insights into ongoing Middle Eastern conflicts.
Trump’s choice to elevate family members to these high-profile roles continues his trend of placing those closest to him in pivotal positions. His son-in-law Jared Kushner, who served in key Middle Eastern roles during Trump’s first term, and his eldest son Donald Jr., remain essential advisers in the transition process.
With these appointments, President-elect Trump aims to strengthen U.S. foreign policy through the lens of personal relationships, loyalty, and business expertise—marking a significant departure from traditional diplomatic norms.
READ MORE: