President Donald Trump has confirmed that his administration is considering accepting a $400 million Boeing jet from Qatar, describing the offer as “a great gesture” and saying it would be “foolish” to reject it.
The proposed move has sparked controversy in Washington. Some Democratic lawmakers have called the gift “grossly illegal,” a claim the White House firmly denies. Critics also include several of Trump’s early supporters.
Qatar, however, has pushed back on the reports, calling them “inaccurate” and stating that discussions over the aircraft are still ongoing. The development comes as Trump continues a tour of Middle Eastern nations, including a visit to Qatar.
According to U.S. media reports, the jet — a Boeing 747 — is being offered by the Qatari royal family and would be handed over to the Department of Defense. The aircraft is intended to serve as a temporary replacement for the aging Air Force One after being retrofitted to meet U.S. security and safety standards.
Trump commented on the matter via his Truth Social platform, stating, “The Department of Defense is receiving a free gift of a 747 aircraft to temporarily replace the 40-year-old Air Force One, in a very public and transparent transaction.”
Speaking to reporters, Trump said, “It’s a great gesture from Qatar. I appreciate it very much. I would never be one to turn down an offer like that.” He added that the administration “could buy a plane or get a plane, or something like that.”
A Qatari defense official told CNN the aircraft is being provided by Qatar’s Ministry of Defense and will undergo modifications before it can operate as Air Force One. Experts suggest the conversion could take years, making it unlikely the plane will be used before the end of Trump’s term.
Trump has also stated the plane would be transferred to his presidential library after his time in office and that he does not plan to use it beyond his presidency.
Despite the president’s assurances, the announcement has drawn criticism from both political opponents and some of his allies. Conservative commentator Laura Loomer warned, “This is going to be a really big stain on the administration if this is true.”
