Special Envoy Witkoff denies info he is going to step back from Trump administration

WASHINGTON. Oct 16 (Interfax) - U.S. President Donald Trump's Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff has said that reports that he is going to step back from the Trump administration are not true.

"This story is 100 percent Fake News and should be immediately retracted. I often wonder where these so-called 'reporters' come up with such laughable nonsense," Witkoff wrote on X.

"I am more engaged on the peace process than ever, and I am continuing to proudly serve the President of the United States!" he said.

The Middle East Eye media outlet reported earlier, citing sources, that Witkoff is expected to step back from the Trump administration to refocus on his own business.

In his speech to the Knesset, Israel's parliament, on Monday, Trump praised Witkoff's negotiating prowess.

"They love him on this side, they love him on the other side. And he really is a great negotiator because he's a great guy," Trump said.

In addition to his efforts on the Middle East track, Witkoff has repeatedly interacted with Russian side on the Ukraine issue in recent months.