Morgan Ortagus Leaves Deputy Mideast Envoy Role Joins US Mission to UN

Morgan Ortagus has transitioned from her role as deputy envoy to the Middle East to serve as a senior policy advisor at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations. Ortagus, who was previously the State Department spokesperson during President Donald Trump's first term and oversaw Lebanon policy under Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, will work under Mike Waltz, Trump's nominee for U.N. ambassador. Her move follows a shakeup in the national security team and a purge of officials focused on Israel and Iran at the National Security Council. Ortagus brings an intelligence background, experience as a deputy Treasury attache to Saudi Arabia, and serves as a U.S. Navy Reserve officer. Her appointment comes at a critical time amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, including considerations of U.S. involvement in Israeli airstrikes on Iran, stalled peace talks in Gaza and Ukraine, and negotiations over Iran's nuclear program. President Trump continues to engage with complex foreign policy challenges, including his stance on Russia and efforts to navigate peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.