Massad Boulos, President Donald Trump's daughter Tiffany's father-in-law who was appointed as senior advisor on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs, met with two Israeli researchers in Washington on Wednesday, touting his commitment to Israel's security.
During the meeting with Dr. Dan Diker, president of the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs, and his deputy, Dr. Aviram Bellaishe, Boulos emphasized that his position toward Israel had been misunderstood.
A Lebanese-born lawyer and businessman, Boulos served as Trump's liaison to Arab and Muslim voters during the presidential campaign. Days after Trump's electoral victory, Boulos was reportedly quoted supporting the establishment of a Palestinian state as the sole solution to the conflict.
In his discussion with the Israeli researchers, Boulos stressed that he considers Israel's security a critical and central issue. He voiced complete support for Trump's Gaza evacuation and reconstruction plan, asserting his firm belief that Hamas must be removed from the territory. "The atrocities and terrorism of October 7 must be eradicated," Boulos emphasized.
On the subject of Lebanon, Trump's senior advisor stated that the Lebanese government must prove itself by dismantling Hezbollah's military arsenal. Boulos indicated that Hezbollah's currently weakened position is insufficient, insisting that the complete elimination of its military capabilities should be the ultimate goal. He further highlighted the importance of preventing Iran from re-establishing influence in Syria or elsewhere in the region.
Following the meeting, Diker told Israel Hayom that "Massad Boulos has been presented inaccurately. His approach to Israel and the Abraham Accords was very positive. He welcomed our viewpoint as Israelis and made it clear that he strongly supports Israel as a native society in the greater Middle East."
