The Witkoff Question: Why Support For Trump's Mideast Envoy Is Ebbing Among Key Allies

James

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Post on May 13, 2025

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The Witkoff Question: Why Support for Trump's Mideast Envoy is Ebbing Among Key Allies

Introduction:

Jason Greenblatt, President Trump's former Middle East envoy, once enjoyed considerable support among key allies in his efforts to broker a lasting Israeli-Palestinian peace. However, that support is now demonstrably waning, raising serious questions about the legacy of his controversial approach and the future of US involvement in the region. This article delves into the reasons behind this shift, exploring the criticisms leveled against Greenblatt's policies and the impact they've had on international relations.

Greenblatt's Legacy: A Mixed Bag

Greenblatt's tenure, from 2017 to 2019, was marked by a distinct shift in US Middle East policy. His approach, characterized by a close alignment with the Israeli government and a less interventionist stance towards the Palestinian Authority, garnered both praise and significant criticism. While some lauded his attempts to foster direct negotiations between the two sides, many others viewed his policies as heavily biased and detrimental to the peace process.

Key Criticisms and Shifting Sands:

Several key factors contribute to the ebbing support for Greenblatt's approach:

• The "Deal of the Century": Greenblatt's central initiative, the so-called "Deal of the Century," was widely criticized for its perceived pro-Israel bias. Many viewed the plan as unrealistic and unfair to the Palestinians, failing to address key issues like the status of Jerusalem and Palestinian refugees. This perception alienated many traditional US allies who advocate for a two-state solution.

• Lack of Palestinian Engagement: The Palestinian Authority's refusal to engage with the "Deal of the Century" underscored the deep mistrust that had developed between the Palestinians and the Trump administration. This lack of engagement significantly undermined the plan's credibility and further alienated international actors committed to a balanced approach.

• Settlement Expansion: The Trump administration's tacit acceptance, and in some cases encouragement, of Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank further fueled international criticism. This action was seen as undermining the prospects for a viable Palestinian state and contravening international law. Many European nations, long-standing allies of the US, openly condemned these policies.

• Shifting Global Dynamics: The changing geopolitical landscape, with a renewed focus on human rights and international law, has also contributed to the diminishing support for Greenblatt's approach. The international community's growing awareness of the Palestinian plight and the increasing scrutiny of Israeli policies have made it increasingly difficult for the US to maintain its previous level of support for the Trump administration's stance.

The Future of US Middle East Policy:

The waning support for Greenblatt's approach raises critical questions about the future direction of US Middle East policy. The Biden administration has signaled a return to a more traditional, even-handed approach, prioritizing a two-state solution and engaging more actively with the Palestinian Authority. However, rebuilding trust and repairing damaged relationships will be a significant challenge.

Conclusion:

The decline in international support for Jason Greenblatt's Middle East policy highlights the complexities and sensitivities of this enduring conflict. Understanding the criticisms leveled against his approach is crucial to charting a more effective path toward lasting peace in the region. The legacy of his tenure serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the importance of balancing interests and fostering genuine trust among all parties involved. The road to peace remains long and arduous, but a reassessment of past strategies is essential for future progress. The international community will be watching closely to see how the current administration navigates these delicate challenges.