In a move that has sent ripples through the political landscape, U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that his administration is prepared to accept a luxurious Boeing jumbo jet valued at approximately $400 million (£303 million) as a gift from Qatar. Trump described this potential acquisition as "a great gesture" and suggested that turning it down would be a foolish decision. However, this announcement has sparked significant controversy, drawing sharp criticism from members of the Democratic Party, who have labeled the act as "wildly illegal." Despite these accusations, the White House has firmly denied any wrongdoing, and even some of Trump's own supporters are voicing their discontent regarding the nature of the gift. Adding to the complexity, officials in Qatar have stated that reports concerning the plane are "inaccurate," insisting that negotiations are still ongoing.

This development comes amid Trump’s ongoing diplomatic tour across several Middle Eastern nations, including a visit to Qatar. The BBC's investigative arm, BBC Verify, has initiated a review into the legal implications surrounding the acceptance of such a significant gift by a sitting president.

Details on the Airplane

Reports from U.S. media surfaced on Sunday, revealing that the Trump administration is preparing to receive this lavish aircraft from the Qatari royal family. According to these reports, the plane is slated to undergo refurbishment to meet the standards required for Air Force One, which is the official aircraft used by U.S. presidents. In a post on Truth Social, Trump elaborated, stating: "The Defense Department is getting a gift, free of charge, of a 747 aircraft to replace the 40-year-old Air Force One, temporarily, in a very public and transparent transaction." When pressed by reporters about the gift, Trump reiterated his approval, affirming, "It's a great gesture from Qatar. I appreciate it very much. I would never be one to turn down that kind of an offer." Notably, Trump has previously expressed his dissatisfaction with Boeing over delays related to new Air Force One jets that he is anticipating directly from the manufacturer.

The Qatari jet was notably inspected by Trump in Palm Beach, Florida, back in February. According to a specification summary from 2015, the aircraft boasts impressive accommodations, including three bedrooms, a private lounge, and an office.

A Qatari official has informed CNN that the plane is being transferred from the Qatari defense ministry to the Pentagon, where it will be modified to meet the security and safety requirements necessary for the role of Air Force One. Experts predict that these modifications could take several years, suggesting that the plane may not be operational until near the conclusion of Trump’s presidency. Interestingly, Trump has stated that once he leaves office, the aircraft will be donated to his presidential library, with the claim that he "wouldn't be using it" thereafter. However, this announcement has ignited backlash not only from Democrats but also from some of Trump’s long-time supporters, such as Laura Loomer, who cautioned, "This is really going to be such a stain on the admin if this is true."

Legal Implications of the Gift

The legality of accepting such a significant gift has been called into question by several Democratic leaders. Senator Adam Schiff has pointed out a clause in the U.S. Constitution that prohibits any elected official from accepting "any present... of any kind whatever" from foreign leaders without congressional approval. Frank Cogliano, a history professor at the University of Edinburgh, emphasized that this constitutional provision was established specifically to prevent governmental corruption through bribery. In the eyes of many legal experts, including Professor Andrew Moran, a constitutional law authority from London Metropolitan University, this situation represents a significant stretching of constitutional norms, especially given the unprecedented nature of the gift.

Additionally, there are existing laws governing the acceptance of foreign gifts. Under the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of 1966, congressional consent is required for any acceptance of foreign gifts exceeding a specified monetary value. Currently, U.S. officials can accept gifts valued at less than $480 (£363). Although Trump has referred to the plane ultimately being transferred to his "library," experts warn that he is likely alluding to his museum foundation. In the United States, ex-presidents typically maintain a library that houses their official documents and a museum funded by private donations, where memorabilia is exhibited to the public.

Jordan Libowitz of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington stated that any future use of the aircraft by Trump after his presidency would cross a significant ethical boundary. He drew a distinction between the current situation and that of Ronald Reagan’s Air Force One, which was retired and decommissioned before being placed in Reagan's presidential library as a museum piece.

The U.S. Justice Department, reportedly, has prepared a memo elucidating why the acceptance of the jet may be permissible, although this document has not yet been made public. When questioned about the legality of the transaction, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded that the "legal details of that are still being worked out, but of course, any donation to this government is always done in full compliance with the law."

Trump's Family Involvement in Middle East Business

During this diplomatic visit, President Trump is engaging in discussions with leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, primarily focused on attracting investments for the United States. This trip follows a series of lucrative business initiatives announced by the Trump Organization, which is currently managed by Trump’s sons, Eric and Donald Jr. These endeavors include ambitious plans to erect golf courses and luxury villas in both Qatar and the UAE. Notably, Trump is not directly associated with the Trump Organization at this time, having transferred management responsibilities to his children upon assuming the presidency on January 20.