Qatar's "flying palace" gift sparks Air Force One controversy
The U.S. Department of Defense has announced that it received a Boeing 747 aircraft from Qatar, which will be used to transport the President of the United States. This luxuriously equipped plane, known as the "flying palace," will be prepared to serve as Air Force One.
The acquisition of the aircraft, valued at approximately $400 million, was reported on Wednesday by Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell.
"The secretary of defense has accepted a Boeing 747 from Qatar in accordance with all federal rules and regulations. The Department of Defense will work to ensure proper security measures and functional-mission requirements are considered for an aircraft used to transport the president of the United States," stated Parnell.
Although not explicitly mentioned in the statement, President Donald Trump previously suggested that the aircraft might be handed over to the foundation for his presidential library once his current term concludes. According to ABC News, this could be the most expensive gift from a foreign government in U.S. history.
When asked about the gift during a meeting with the President of South Africa at the White House, Trump remarked that it was a "wonderful thing" and praised Qatar for their "very nice gesture" in gifting the Jumbo Jet to the U.S. Air Force. He added that America needs a new presidential aircraft, but Boeing is behind schedule on an order for two modified 747s.
In February, the President inspected the "flying palace" during a visit to Florida and expressed frustration over Boeing's delays.
Controversy surrounding the gift from Qatar
The issue, however, raises significant legal and security concerns. The Constitution prohibits accepting gifts from foreign governments without Congressional consent, and the aircraft will require significant modifications to ensure it meets the requirements for presidential transport and intelligence inspections.
On Wednesday, Jack Reed, the Vice Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee and a Democrat, called on the Pentagon's Inspector General to launch an investigation into what he characterized as a brazen attempt to circumvent constitutional restrictions. Specifically, he referred to concerns over the acceptance of personal gifts from foreign governments without the required approval from Congress. He also pointed out that modifying the aircraft could take years. Several Republican congressmen and senators have previously voiced unease and concern about this matter.
Senator Josh Hawley told NPR that he would prefer the presidential aircraft were purchased domestically and stated that if Qatar wants to gain favor with Washington, it should cut ties with the Islamist groups it supports. Senator Ted Cruz commented that the gift "poses a significant issue of espionage and surveillance," while Republican Senate Leader John Thune announced that the matter would be thoroughly investigated.
