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Real estate, crypto, Middle East deals: Who is Steve Witkoff?
11 snips Jun 4, 2025
Isaac Stanley-Becker, a staff writer at The Atlantic, discusses the rise of Steve Witkoff, a former real estate mogul turned U.S. special envoy to the Middle East. The conversation delves into Witkoff's unexpected role in negotiating complex international conflicts, including the war in Gaza and potential nuclear deals with Iran. Stanley-Becker also highlights the intricacies of U.S.-Russia relations and how personal motivations influence high-stakes diplomacy. The episode sheds light on Witkoff’s journey from businessman to key geopolitical figure.
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Witkoff's Origins & Trump Bond
- Steve Witkoff started as a lawyer and met Donald Trump while working at a firm representing Trump's real estate interests.
- Trump inspired Witkoff to leave law and pursue real estate investing, forming a friendship that deepened over decades.
Trump's Inner Circle Diplomacy
- Trump often entrusts sensitive international negotiations to close family or friends rather than traditional diplomats.
- Witkoff became Middle East envoy due to his loyalty and close personal ties to Trump, not traditional diplomatic experience.
Early Diplomatic Wins Expand Role
- Witkoff helped secure a ceasefire and hostage release deal before Trump took office, working directly with the Biden envoy.
- Success led to expanding his role to Russia negotiations and later Iran nuclear talks as Trump trusted him deeply.