Former US Diplomat Martin Indyk Passes Away at 73

Martin Indyk, a prominent figure in American diplomacy and a former US ambassador to Israel, has died at the age of 73. His death was confirmed by the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, an organization he co-founded in 1985. Indyk's career was marked by significant contributions to Middle East policy, including his involvement in the Oslo peace process and the dual containment strategy regarding Iraq and Iran. Dr. Robert Satloff, the institute's executive director, highlighted Indyk's lasting impact on American foreign policy in the region. Indyk's wife, Gal Hodges Burt, reported that he succumbed to complications from esophageal cancer at their home in New Fairfield, Connecticut. Former President Bill Clinton expressed his condolences on social media, praising Indyk as a skilled diplomat who tirelessly pursued peace in the Middle East. Clinton noted the invaluable role Indyk played during his administration's efforts to resolve the longstanding conflict. Throughout his career, Indyk served as US ambassador to Israel during two separate terms, from 1995 to 1997 and again from 2000 to 2001. He was appointed as the special envoy for Israeli-Palestinian negotiations during the Obama administration from 2013 to 2014, continuing to advise on Middle East peace initiatives even after his resignation. In recent months, Indyk remained actively engaged in discussions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's policies and warning of potential isolation for Israel following a failed peace deal. His insights and advocacy will be remembered as part of his enduring legacy in international diplomacy.