Amid parallel negotiations in Geneva on the Ukraine war and Iran's nuclear program, two New York businessmen, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, have taken center stage, marking a departure from the traditional reliance on career diplomats. Over the past year, they have acted as President Donald Trump's chief envoys in critical geopolitical disputes, illustrating Trump's belief that business negotiation tactics can be applied to complex international conflicts. CNN reports that their involvement signifies a shift in how the U.S. engages in diplomacy, with these businessmen leveraging their negotiation skills to address pressing global issues.

The responses to Witkoff and Kushner's unconventional approach are mixed among U.S. allies and experts. On one hand, they have achieved notable outcomes, particularly in negotiating ceasefires in Gaza, demonstrating that their methods can yield tangible results. However, skepticism is growing around whether such informal, deal-making diplomacy can effectively navigate conflicts that encompass not just economic and territorial disputes, but also identity, security, and the political survival of nations involved. This tension between achieving swift agreements and addressing the complexities of international relations will shape future diplomatic efforts.

As they continue to navigate these challenging waters, the implications of their approach remain uncertain. The balance between immediate results and the deeper intricacies of global politics presents a formidable challenge. The international community will be closely watching how this new style of diplomacy unfolds, as well as its potential long-term impacts on the traditional practices of international relations and conflict resolution.