Apple CEO Tim Cook declined an invitation to join President Trump’s recent business delegation to the Middle East, a decision that reportedly irritated the president and heightened existing tensions between Apple and the White House. The snub became a recurring theme during Trump’s trip, as he publicly contrasted Cook’s absence with the participation of other tech leaders like Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang.
During a speech in Riyadh, Trump pointedly praised Huang for attending the visit while noting Cook’s absence, turning what could have been a routine diplomatic mission into a platform for airing grievances. The remarks underscored the strained relationship between the administration and one of America’s most valuable companies, particularly over issues like manufacturing, tariffs, and encryption.
Cook’s refusal to join the delegation reflects Apple’s cautious approach to political entanglements, especially amid growing scrutiny of Big Tech’s global operations. While other executives saw the trip as a chance to discuss trade and investment opportunities, Apple appears to have calculated that the risks of association with Trump’s foreign policy agenda outweighed the potential benefits. The episode leaves lingering questions about how the administration might respond—and whether Apple’s regulatory challenges could intensify as a result.
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