Trumps jet envy outrage obscures a much larger issue
CNNMAY 8
Trump Secures $2T in Gulf Deals During Middle East Tour
Above: Trump and bin Salman sign at the Saudi Royal Court in Riyadh on May 13, 2025. Image copyright: Win McNamee/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
The massive Gulf deals represent a triumph of American economic diplomacy, creating thousands of high-paying jobs and strengthening critical strategic partnerships in the Middle East. These agreements will secure America's position as the region's preferred partner in advanced technologies, particularly in AI and defense, while providing unprecedented market access for U.S. companies.
Democratic narrative
These deals raise serious concerns about potential conflicts of interest, particularly regarding the Qatari aircraft gift, and could compromise U.S. national security interests by providing advanced AI technology access to Gulf states. There are also concerns about the implications of lifting Syrian sanctions and the broader impact on regional power dynamics.