P
resident-elect Donald Trump has chosen Steve Witkoff as his Middle East envoy, a real estate developer and longtime friend who was present at a foiled assassination attempt on Trump's life.

    Witkoff, 67, is a respected businessman and philanthropist who has made significant contributions to various projects and communities. Despite having no diplomatic experience in the Middle East, Witkoff shares similarities with Jason Greenblatt, Trump's previous special representative for international negotiations, who also lacked direct experience before taking on the role.

    Trump praised Witkoff as a "Voice for PEACE" who will make Americans proud. The two have been friends since the 1980s and have collaborated on various business ventures. Witkoff has purchased several notable New York City landmarks, including the Woolworth Building.

    Witkoff's appointment is part of a larger group of national security and diplomacy picks announced this week, including former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee as ambassador to Israel and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio as Secretary of State.