The things they say

“There is no doubt that a significant reason behind the electronics ban is to stifle competition from Gulf airlines, and to encourage US bound passengers to fly on American carriers.” Emirati scholar and social commentator Sultan Al Qassemi accused the US government of seeking to hurt Gulf airlines in an op-ed piece for Middle East Institute last month. Under the new rules, passengers from 10 Middle East and North African airports are not allowed to bring electronics larger than a smartphone in their carry-on luggage when flying to the US.