Carlson, Ryan Criticize Trump Middle East Business Deals

Tucker Carlson, a well-known supporter of Donald Trump, publicly questioned the ethics of Trump's recent business deals in the Middle East, describing them as potentially resembling corruption. On a podcast episode with former Navy SEAL Shawn Ryan, both raised concerns over the timing and motives behind the Trump Organization's expansion, which includes a Trump International Hotel & Tower in Dubai and a golf resort in Doha. Ryan, while supportive of some Trump policies, expressed disappointment over unresolved issues such as the unreleased Epstein files and questioned potential links between business deals and official negotiations. Carlson clarified he holds no financial interest in the region, but agreed the optics appear problematic. The deals, covering new projects in Dubai, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, have drawn bipartisan criticism and intensified conflict-of-interest concerns since Trump retains his business interests. The scrutiny represents a rare break from steadfast pro-Trump messaging by prominent conservative figures.