Trump Faces Backlash from MAGA Supporters Over Meeting with Qatari Leaders
REUTERS/Jim Urquhart
Former President Donald Trump boasted over the weekend about meeting his “friends” from Qatar at Mar-a-Lago, but the reaction from his supporters was far from positive. On Sunday, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to express gratitude for his meeting with Middle Eastern leaders.
“It was great seeing my friends His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of Qatar, and His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister of Qatar, at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida,” Trump wrote. He praised the Amir as a “great and powerful leader,” noting Qatar’s rapid advancements and highlighting their shared desire for peace in the Middle East. “We had a great relationship during my years in the White House, and it will be even stronger this time around!” Trump added optimistically.
However, many of Trump’s hardcore MAGA followers were not thrilled about his association with the Qatari leaders, especially given Qatar’s reported ties to groups involved in Israeli conflicts.
One user, @DocReality, questioned Trump’s connections, writing, “Since when are you friends with Islamist antisemites?” Others echoed this sentiment. @Cheslerde, a self-described “Constitutional Conservative,” commented, “We love ya, but I don’t think the hostages and families are thrilled about Qatar hosting the Hamas and Hezbollah terrorist freaks!”
Several other users expressed concerns over Qatar’s role in hosting Hamas leaders. @MarcRudov asked, “What about the whereabouts of Sinwar? The hostages in Gaza?” while @CJBlue remarked, “If he’s so great, why does Qatar allow Hamas leaders to hide out in his country?”
One particularly critical comment came from @Cane1, who appeared shocked by the meeting. “Qatar? Are funding and housing Hamas leaders, WTF are you doing?” the user said. Another supporter, @CaseyGorsuch, issued a warning to Trump, writing, “Hey Don. You should really start watching your mouth. It’s going to cost you the presidency.”
The backlash reflects growing frustration among some of Trump’s base regarding his relationships with leaders in the Middle East, particularly in light of recent tensions and conflicts involving Israel. Despite Trump’s praise of his Qatari counterparts, the MAGA crowd remains divided over these diplomatic ties.
