I
n a stunning display of unconventional diplomacy, Donald Trump's special Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff has emerged as the unlikely architect of a fragile ceasefire in Gaza. A billionaire real estate mogul with no prior experience in foreign policy, Witkoff's reputation as a fearless negotiator and close friend to the US president has earned him a unique role in shaping America's Middle East strategy.

    Witkoff's unorthodox approach to diplomacy was on full display this week as he defended Trump's provocative suggestion to "take over" Gaza and relocate its two million Palestinian inhabitants. When asked about the plan, Witkoff downplayed concerns, saying it was a long-term vision for making the territory habitable. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz chimed in, praising Witkoff's real estate expertise as a valuable asset in navigating the complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

    Despite criticism from regional leaders and human rights groups, who view the proposal as tantamount to ethnic cleansing, Witkoff remains undeterred. "A better life is not tied to physical space," he said on Fox News, sidestepping the decades-long history of the conflict. Trump himself praised Witkoff's efforts at a joint news conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him a "fantastic job" and crediting his friend for brokering the Gaza ceasefire.

    Witkoff's appointment as special envoy was a surprise move by Trump, who has a history of tapping unorthodox figures to key diplomatic roles. In 2017, he named Jared Kushner, another novice diplomat, to the same position. Witkoff's own background in real estate and his close relationship with Trump have made him an unlikely but influential player in Middle East politics.

    As the US administration continues to navigate the treacherous waters of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Witkoff's untested approach has raised eyebrows among experts. Steven Cook, a Council on Foreign Relations expert, noted that while Witkoff's lack of experience might bring a fresh perspective, "the Israel-Palestine conflict is not a real estate deal." Nevertheless, Witkoff remains at the forefront of Trump's Middle East strategy, using his unique blend of business acumen and diplomatic inexperience to shape America's approach to one of the world's most intractable conflicts.