When Donald Trump announced Morgan Ortagus as deputy Middle East peace envoy under his administration, it wasn’t exactly a glowing endorsement. True to his bold, no-filter style, Trump laid it all out in a Truth Social post, mixing skepticism with cautious optimism.
“She Fought Me for Three Years”
Trump didn’t shy away from airing some past grievances. He noted that Ortagus, once a critic of his policies, had clashed with him during his 2016 campaign. Despite this, he emphasized that her selection wasn’t for his benefit but for the Republican Party’s broader goals.
“Hopefully, she’s learned her lesson,” Trump remarked, adding, “These things usually don’t work out, but let’s see what happens.”
No pressure, right?
A Tough Job Ahead
Ortagus is stepping into one of the world’s most complex regions. The challenges include Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza, the uncertainty surrounding Syria post-Assad, and the persistent threat of Iran. Her experience in the State Department, particularly her work on the Abraham Accords (a historic agreement between Israel and Arab nations), could serve her well.
But let’s not forget the stakes. The Middle East doesn’t offer second chances easily. Success requires not just diplomacy but strategy and resilience—qualities Ortagus will need to showcase.
Why Ortagus?
Senator Lindsey Graham, a vocal supporter, couldn’t praise her enough. “She knows the region as well as anybody I’ve met. Nobody has closer ties to Israel and understands the mischief of Iran,” he said. Graham brushed off Trump’s critical tone, attributing it to the rough-and-tumble nature of politics.
And let’s be honest: loyalty has always been a cornerstone of Trump’s staffing decisions. For someone who values unwavering allegiance, Ortagus’s history of criticism made her a surprising pick. Yet, her credentials—and perhaps her GOP backing—seem to have tipped the scales.
An Unconventional Leader, an Unconventional Team
Trump’s announcement style reflects his hands-on, unconventional approach to governance. His pick of Steve Witkoff, a real estate mogul and loyal ally, as the lead Middle East envoy further underscores this. Witkoff, who once faced an attempted assassination plot while golfing with Trump, is tasked with leading the peace efforts.
What’s Next?
Ortagus declined to comment on her new role, but all eyes will be on her as she navigates the treacherous waters of Middle East diplomacy. With Trump’s high expectations and a region in turmoil, the question isn’t just whether she can succeed—it’s whether she can win over her toughest critic: Donald Trump himself.
Final Thoughts
Love him or hate him, Trump’s leadership style always keeps things interesting. His decision to appoint Ortagus might seem like a gamble, but in the high-stakes game of Middle East peace, calculated risks are often part of the deal.
What do you think? Is Ortagus the steady hand needed in a turbulent region, or is this another bold move that could go either way?
