During high-level discussions in Saudi Arabia on the ongoing war in Ukraine, U.S. special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, represented the American delegation.
A prominent real estate investor based in New York and a long-time associate of former President Trump, Witkoff was chosen for this influential role despite lacking extensive diplomatic experience prior to his appointment.
Witkoff has been pivotal in facilitating the recent Israel-Hamas ceasefire negotiations. He reported having “very productive and constructive” communications with officials from Israel, Qatar, and Egypt as discussions progressed.
His diplomatic endeavors have extended beyond the Middle East, marking him as the first senior U.S. official to visit Russia since the nation’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Witkoff successfully negotiated the release of American teacher Marc Fogel, who had been imprisoned in Russia for over three years, arranging for his return on his private jet.
“What a dynamic man this guy is,” Fogel remarked about Witkoff after his release, praising his energy and approach.
Witkoff’s Background in Real Estate
Born and raised in the Bronx, Witkoff, 67, graduated from Hofstra University and established the Witkoff Group in 1997, leading numerous high-profile property developments across major U.S. cities and internationally. Forbes estimates his net worth at approximately $1 billion as of 2024.
Notably, Witkoff’s family plays a significant role in his business; his son Alex is the group’s CEO, while Zach serves as executive vice president of development.
A History of Friendship with Trump
Witkoff and Trump’s friendship began in 1986, and they have since bonded over their shared interests, including golf. Witkoff recounted a memorable encounter where he bought Trump a sandwich when the then-developer was short on cash, a moment Trump would later recall.
He attended Trump’s golf course during the 2023 assassination attempt against the former president, remarking that the incident would not deter Trump from pursuing his passion for the sport.
Political Contributions and Support for Trump
Witkoff has been a significant financial supporter of Trump’s political endeavors, contributing over $2 million to various Republican action groups. His involvement extends to serving as an advisor on key issues such as tax reforms and strategies to combat the opioid crisis during the pandemic.
Weeks after Trump’s reelection, Witkoff was appointed as special envoy, with Trump commending his leadership and dedication to fostering peace. Witkoff’s role underscores his importance in addressing sensitive geopolitical matters as he navigates complex international relationships.
Following discussions about Middle Eastern affairs during a meeting with Graham, Trump recognized Witkoff’s potential contributions, leading to his appointment—a decision emphasizing the need for skilled negotiators in challenging diplomatic environments.
