Trump Taps Pro-Israel Force Morgan Ortagus For Top Mideast Peace Role

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the diplomatic community, US President Donald Trump has appointed Morgan Ortagus, a staunch supporter of Israel, as the State Department’s Special Representative for International Negotiations.

Ortagus’s appointment has been met with mixed reactions. Some analysts argue that her pro-Israel stance will hinder her ability to broker a balanced peace agreement between Israel and Palestine. Others contend that her deep understanding of the region and strong ties to Israeli officials will prove valuable in advancing the peace process.

Pro-Israel Credentials

Ortagus, a former State Department spokesperson, has a long history of supporting Israel. She has openly criticized the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which aims to pressure Israel to end its occupation of the Palestinian territories. She has also spoken out against the United Nations Human Rights Council, which she has accused of bias against Israel.

In her new role, Ortagus will be responsible for leading the US delegation in negotiations with Israel, Palestine, and other regional stakeholders. She will also work closely with US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman, who is also a strong supporter of Israel.

Criticisms of Appointment

Critics of Ortagus’s appointment argue that her pro-Israel bias will make it difficult for her to be an impartial mediator in the peace process. They point to her past statements as evidence of her unwillingness to criticize Israel, even when it is warranted.

“Morgan Ortagus is a staunch supporter of Israel who has repeatedly demonstrated her bias against the Palestinians,” said Yousef Munayyer, executive director of the Jerusalem Fund for Education and Community Development. “Her appointment as Special Representative for International Negotiations sends a clear message that the Trump administration is not committed to a just and equitable peace settlement.”

Defense of Appointment

Supporters of Ortagus’s appointment argue that her pro-Israel stance does not disqualify her from being an effective peace negotiator. They point to her experience in the State Department and her strong relationships with Israeli officials.

“Morgan Ortagus is a highly qualified diplomat who has the skills and experience necessary to succeed in this role,” said Michael Doran, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute. “Her deep understanding of the Middle East and her strong ties to Israeli officials will be invaluable in advancing the peace process.”

Implications for the Peace Process

The appointment of Morgan Ortagus as Special Representative for International Negotiations is likely to have a significant impact on the US-led peace process. Her pro-Israel stance is likely to raise concerns among Palestinian officials, who may see her as biased against their interests.

However, Ortagus’s supporters believe that her strong relationships with Israeli officials could help to facilitate progress in the peace process. They argue that she is well-positioned to build trust between the two sides and help them overcome the obstacles that have prevented a lasting peace agreement.

Conclusion

The appointment of Morgan Ortagus as Special Representative for International Negotiations is a controversial move that has the potential to shape the future of the US-led peace process. Her pro-Israel stance is likely to raise concerns among Palestinian officials, but her supporters believe that her strong relationships with Israeli officials could help to facilitate progress in the peace process.

Only time will tell whether Ortagus will be able to overcome the challenges facing her and help to achieve a just and lasting peace between Israel and Palestine.