Sunday, June 04, 2017

The worst part of the UAE embassy leak?

The most important revelation from the leaks is the incestious relationship between UAE embassies and the press and government officials and former officials.  The message between the ambassador and David Ignatious is not surprising (given the contents of the articles by Ignatious over the year) but now we have documentation.  Gulf money has really corrupted Washington DC more than it is already corrupted.  Pundits, journalists and officials (and former officials) of both parties are seduced by money, junkets, speaking fees, trips, and meetings with royals.  Don't forget donations to presidential libraries and to policy centers.  There are barely any independent and non-corrupt voices in DC who speak on Gulf affairs.  Follow the money whenever you read an opinion or hear a statement on Gulf affairs by a DC person.