Qatar has categorically denied any impropriety after presenting a high-end Boeing jet as a gift to the United States, describing it as a normal transaction between friends. Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani clarified that the jet was included in a diplomatic gesture, and not an attempt to win unfair influence.
“I don’t understand why people take it as bribery or Qatar attempting to purchase influence,” the PM added in a press conference. He insisted that such transactions do not occur rarely in the case of international diplomacy, particularly between strategic allies like Qatar and the US.
The row picked up speed on the social media platform, with many asking why the gift was given now and with what motive. Qatari officials, however, emphasized that the nation has a history of defense and diplomatic cooperation with the United States and that the gift must be understood in that context.
Analysts say the backlash could be driven by increasing scrutiny of foreign influence in Washington, but point out that the jet gift has been done according to diplomatic norms. Qatar insists that its foreign alliances are founded on mutual respect and openness and not favors.
