Trump Family Interests Tied to Saudi Prince May Influence Prolongation of Iran War
NEWS & RESEARCH
In March 2026, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) urged President Trump to escalate the war with Iran. The two share extensive financial ties: Jared Kushner, acting as a liaison, secured a $2 billion investment from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund for his firm. Additionally, the Trump Organization recently announced $10 billion in Saudi real estate ventures, including a government-backed hotel and golf course.
SOURCES: New York Times | New Yorker | New York Times | People
ANALYSIS & OPINION
Critics argue Trump is blurring the lines between "affairs of state" and private profit. MS NOW’s Steve Benen notes that the U.S. is waging war against a Saudi foe while the Saudis finalize deals with Trump’s family. Professor David Faris (The Nation) adds that Saudi Arabia has successfully lobbied the U.S. to do the heavy fighting, while political scientist Andrew Leber notes the kingdom remains unlikely to deploy its own "boots on the ground."
SOURCES: Maddow Blog | The Nation
HOW TO FIX IT
Enforce the Emoluments Clause: Pass Sen. Blumenthal’s resolution to pursue legal action regarding Trump’s foreign financial gains.
Investigate Conflicts of Interest: Probe Jared Kushner’s ties to Middle Eastern sovereign wealth funds.
Restrict Nuclear Proliferation: Pass the No Nuclear Weapons for Saudi Arabia Act to mandate Congressional approval for nuclear cooperation.
Reform Lobbying Laws: Modernize the Foreign Agents Registration Act to curb "shadow lobbying" and financial influence.
Mandate Divestiture: Amend the Ethics in Government Act to require presidents to place assets in a blind trust and divest from conflicting interests.
Legislation: S.4243 - No Nuclear Weapons for Saudi Arabia Act of 2026
