Morgan Ortagus Appointed to Senior UN Role in Trump Administration
Former State Department spokesperson transitions from Middle East envoy position
Morgan Ortagus has assumed a senior political position at the United Nations this week, transitioning from her previous role as a deputy envoy to the Middle East in the Trump administration. Ortagus previously managed Lebanon policy under Steve Witkoff, who serves as the lead Middle East envoy. During President Trump's first term, she held the position of State Department spokesperson.
Ortagus joins the UN team while Mike Waltz, President Trump's nominee for UN ambassador, awaits Senate confirmation. Senator Jim Risch, chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, has indicated he is in communication with Waltz, though a hearing date has not yet been scheduled. Ortagus reportedly maintains close professional relationships with Waltz and other senior administration officials.
KEY POINTS
- •Ortagus appointed to UN senior role
- •Previously served as Middle East envoy
- •Joins amid ongoing global conflicts
The appointment comes at a complex time in international relations, particularly regarding Middle East policy. The administration is currently evaluating whether to participate in Israeli airstrikes against Iran, while conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine remain unresolved. Additionally, the administration is considering further negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program in an effort to prevent broader regional conflict.
Ortagus brings significant experience to the role, including an intelligence background and active service as a U.S. Navy Reserve officer. Her foreign policy credentials also include previous work as a deputy Treasury attaché to Saudi Arabia. President Trump appointed her to the Middle East envoy position earlier in his term, noting at that time that she came with strong recommendations.