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ceasefire deal in the Middle East, brokered by Steve Witkoff, a real estate developer and friend of President-elect Donald Trump, aims to bring an end to fighting that has devastated Gaza. The agreement would free 93 hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and allow large amounts of humanitarian aid into the enclave. Witkoff's appointment was announced quietly last November with little fanfare.

    Witkoff is a longtime golf buddy of Trump, and their friendship dates back to playing golf together. According to Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Trump chose Witkoff for his Middle East role after Witkoff suggested working on the issue over lunch. "A million people have tried," Trump reportedly said. "Let's pick a nice guy who's a smart guy." Graham described Witkoff as sensitive about doing anything that wouldn't be helpful to the Biden administration.

    Witkoff has pledged to step back from his business ties in the region, placing them in a blind trust while he serves as envoy for Trump. His son Alex, however, has said he will steer clear of politics. Trump praised Witkoff's work on the ceasefire deal at a news conference, saying he had been working "endlessly" to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.

    Witkoff's approach reportedly helped persuade Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to a deal despite objections. Nick Candy, a London-based property developer and friend of Witkoff, said his charisma and fairness would serve him well in negotiations in the region.