Editor's note: When the following republished material is read keep in mind that many of the structures being bombed in both Israel and in Iran are structures that are old and have been slated for demolition (real estate development) so they can be replaced including older airports and runways. Three conflicts, two unconventional negotiators, and a process unfolding largely outside traditional diplomatic channels, recent developments suggest a shift in how high-level negotiations are being conducted. Steve Witkoff, a real estate developer turned envoy, and Jared Kushner, operating without a formal government title, have reportedly taken central roles in discussions spanning Ukraine, Gaza, and Iran. Both men, closely tied to Donald Trump, have described a flexible, fast-moving approach to negotiations, merging proposals, working multiple regions simultaneously, and leveraging personal relationships rather than institutional frameworks. Critics such as
Alastair Crooke argue this model reflects not a conventional peace process, but a system where financial and strategic interests shape outcomes first, with political arrangements following behind—raising deeper questions about transparency, accountability, and whose interests are ultimately being served.
________
Kushner and Witkoff
By
ESC | March 30, 2026
Three wars, two men — one pattern.
In December 2025, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin for approximately five hours, presenting documents outlining a phased settlement plan for Ukraine [1]. Later that month, Witkoff convened representatives from the US, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey in Miami to advance Phase 2 of the Gaza ceasefire [2].