Israel Policy Forum (IPF) supports Salam Fayyad’s appointment as the United Nations special envoy to Libya. We are puzzled and disappointed by the Trump administration’s rejection of this appointment. Fayyad’s service as Palestinian prime minister was unparalleled, and he was lauded by both the American and Israeli governments for his competence, honesty, and principles. Serving as the UN envoy to Libya does not in any way touch upon Israel-Palestinian issues or indicate recognition of a Palestinian state, and we unreservedly condemn the notion that any potential UN appointee should be disqualified based upon nationality alone. We urge the Trump administration to reconsider its position on Fayyad and endorse his selection as special envoy.
