Trump Doubles Down That 'Only a Fool' Would Turn Down Qatari Plane Amid Bipartisan Criticism

Donald Trump fiercely defended accepting a $400 million Boeing 747 from Qatar, dismissing bipartisan criticism and calling it a smart move for U.S. taxpayers.

The jet, gifted by Qatar's royal family, has drawn scrutiny from lawmakers across the aisle, who worry it could violate constitutional provisions. For instance, the Emoluments Clause bars federal officials from accepting gifts from foreign states without congressional approval.

Critics on both sides of the political spectrum argue that accepting such a lavish gift could set a dangerous precedent or signal undue foreign influence, even if the plane is formally given to the U.S. government.

Trump previously accused Qatar of funding terrorism "at a very high level" in 2017, adding to the controversy around the gesture, according to Politico.

On Tuesday, Trump took to Truth Social to frame the plane as a gift to the Department of Defense, not to himself personally. He argued the aircraft would serve as a temporary Air Force One while Boeing's delayed replacements are completed.

Emphasizing that the U.S. has defended Qatar militarily for years, he positioned the gift as compensation and called it a patriotic win.

"This big savings will be spent, instead, to MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! Only a FOOL would not accept this gift on behalf of our Country. Thank you for your attention to this matter," Trump wrote.

Meanwhile, Trump continues his Middle East tour.