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David Makovsky

EXCLUSIVE
  • Expert on U.S. Policy in the Middle East
  • Distinguished Fellow and Director, The Washington Institute's Koret Project on Arab-Israel Relations
  • Former Senior Advisor to the U.S. Secretary of State for Israeli-Palestinian Negotiations
  • Author and Award-Winning Journalist

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Washington Insider, author, U.S.-Middle East policy expert David Makovsky is one of America’s leading commentators with deep knowledge about this region developed over decades. He delivers informative presentations on topics concerning today’s news, scholarship, and geopolitics in the Mideast. 

Makovsky is currently a distinguished fellow at The Washington Institute for Near East Policy and Director of the Koret Project on Arab-Israel Relations. Makovsky previously served as a senior advisor to the U.S. Special Envoy for Israeli-Palestinian Negotiations in the Office of Secretary of State. He is a lifetime member of the Council on Foreign Relations, as well as the International Institute for Strategic Studies. He brings his experience as a senior adviser as well as his keen analysis of the current situation to accessible, engaging conversations about the past, present, and future of U.S. policy in the Middle East and the Arab-Israeli peace process, shedding light on challenges and opportunities.

Makovsky is a sought-after commentator. He has spoken about Israel and the Mideast across over 175 American campus visits. Many have seen him on the PBS Newshour for decades. He is often quoted in the New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, and other leading publications. His op-ed commentary has appeared in those and other key media outlets. A veteran journalist, Makovsky previously served as the Executive Editor of the Jerusalem Post. He was also the diplomatic correspondent for Ha’aretz, as well as contributing editor to U.S. News and World Report. He was awarded the National Press Club’s Edwin M. Hood Award for Diplomatic Correspondence.

Makovsky’s experience speaking nationally on the hardest topics of today positions him to thoughtfully address any audience. The Wilsher Boulevard Temple says, “David was dynamite! His energy, his intelligence and his humor all fill the room as he covers the tough subjects of the Middle East peace process… He responded thoughtfully and warmly to challenging questions.”

 


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Past Hosts Include:
  • Detroit Jewish Federation
  • Hadassah
  • JCRC in Dallas
  • Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago
  • Houston World Affairs Council
  • Shaare Zedek Synagogue
  • United Israel Appeal of Australia
  • Greater Washington Area Federation
  • American Jewish Committee
  • Wilshire Boulevard Temple
Rave Reviews About David Makovsky
“
The events over the weekend were excellent! David’s deep experience and knowledge of the issues was clearly appreciated by all; the conversations were extremely educational.

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More rave reviews

"I cannot thank you enough for the huge gift you gave us last night. In a little over an hour, you clearly and articulately gave us a deep understanding of the Accords, the factors that led to the agreements, and what this normalization will mean for the region and all the players. It felt to me like an insider’s look into the Middle East, with so many mind-blowing details…The handful of people I was able to speak with after the program told me they felt more hopeful about Israel and the Middle East than they’ve felt in decades. I share that feeling."

-Rabbi Lavey Derby, Peninsula JCC Director of Jewish Life

"Thank you so much for your incredible talk... During my breakout room, and in the 2 days since, I've received nothing but fantastic feedback from my board. Thank you for helping us start the year on an interesting, thought-provoking note."

-Max Moline, NextGen Director, Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia

"Thank you for your ‘fire hose’ download of education last evening. I’ve received applause from both left and right sides of our community!"

-Harvey Cohen, Board of Directors, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

"We have been doing speakers/entertainers on Sunday evenings since the pandemic began…The best we have had so far was a panel of Ambassador Dennis Ross and Professor David Makovsky. They were stellar. They gave detailed analysis of the UAE/Bahrain normalization agreements, the Iran deal, and the future of U.S.-Israel relations under the Biden Administration. I can't recommend them enough."

-Rabbi Bob Slosberg, Congregation Adath Jeshurun in Louisville

"Your presentation on January 6th was exceptional. Everyone had the most positive feedback. You were so kind to accommodate those that wanted commentary on the state of our country on that day. Hearing the behind-the-scenes information on the Abraham Accords makes me feel like this will be a lasting peace. I would love to bring you both back as things evolve on all fronts, for an update."

-Cheri DeKofsky, Executive Director, Jewish Federation of Ventura County

"Dear David, we want to take this opportunity to thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to meet with a group of Federation professionals and volunteers last week. Your presentation provoked a thoughtful and lively discussion among the group. We look forward to working with you in the future."

-David Golder, Chair, Domestic Policy and Government Affairs, & Elana Broitman, Senior Vice President Public Affairs, Jewish Federations of North America

"Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to meet with a group of Federation professionals and volunteers last week. Your presentation provoked a thoughtful and lively discussion among the group. We look forward to working with you in the future."

-Jewish Federations of North America

"Your presentation on January 6th was exceptional. Everyone had the most positive feedback. You were so kind to accommodate those that wanted commentary on the state of our country on that day. Hearing the behind-the-scenes information on the Abraham Accords makes me feel like this will be a lasting peace. I would love to bring you both back as things evolve on all fronts, for an update."

-Jewish Federation of Ventura County, CA

"Ambassador Dennis Ross and Professor David Makovsky ... were stellar. They gave detailed analysis of the UAE/Bahrain normalization agreements, the Iran deal, and the future of U.S.-Israel relations under the Biden Administration. I can't recommend them enough."

-Congregation Adath Jeshurun in Louisville, KY

"Thank you for your ‘fire hose’ download of education last evening. I’ve received applause from both left and right sides of our community!"

-Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

"Your talks were fascinating, engaging, compelling, and very well received by our community."

-Beth Jacob Congregation in Beverly Hills, CA

"Thank you so much for your incredible talk. ... I've received nothing but fantastic feedback from my board. Thank you for helping us start the year on an interesting, thought-provoking note."

-Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia

"In a little over an hour you clearly and articulately gave us a deep understanding of the Accords, the factors that led to the agreements, and what this normalization will mean for the region and all the players. It felt to me like an insider’s look into the Middle East, with so many mind-blowing details…The handful of people I was able to speak with after the program told me they felt more hopeful about Israel and the Middle East than they’ve felt in decades."

-Peninsula JCC

"Boker tov, David, Thank you for your kind note and for creating an extraordinary weekend for us at Anshai Torah. Everyone was so appreciative of the insights you shared w us, and the humility you expressed throughout the weekend. Thank you for all you do on behalf of the Jewish people- you are a very special person and we are all so fortunate to know the Washington Institute is in such good hands with you serving as its director. I especially enjoyed the opportunity to speak w you in the car for a few minutes. All the best to you and your family. Again, thank you for a very special treat this past weekend. Shalom u’mevorach"

-Anshai Torah

"Everything went well. David was well received. He is an excellent speaker, took questions from the audience and even stayed later to speak to the people. He mentioned the importance of Israel and Israel Bonds. They were very pleased."

-Development Corporation of Israel

"Thank you so much for coming in to speak at JUF’s Country Club Day. I heard great reports from my colleagues who were at Northmoor. That, of course, doesn’t surprise me. They were very taken with your knowledge, the authority with which you spoke, the insights that you had into the issues that are of great concern to all of us."

-Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago

"You hit a grand slam homerun! Everyone here at Beth Tfiloh loved your presentation. You took a complex subject and provided insight that helped the entire audience of more than 500 people fully understand the situation. And rather than coming from the left or the right, you came right down the center, enabling everyone to feel connected to the presentation. Thank you for making it a fabulous evening."

-Beth Tfiloh Congregation

"All I can say is WOW! David was AMAZING!!!!! ! He was great at NATO, the High School kids loved him and he was absolutely perfect with his remarks to our major donors! The community event that was supposed to be a 30"

-United Jewish Federation of Tidewater

"David Makovsky is an exciting presenter who brings a clear analysis to complicated issues. He is a dynamic, eloquent speaker --an expert in his field who appreciates and respects his audience. I have received outstanding feedback to our opening lecture featuring Mr. Makovsky who spoke about “Bombing Iran: Yes? No? Israel’s Response and the United States’ Response. Five hundred Baltimore Jews are now better educated and informed about this subject due to Mr. Makovsky’s clear and insightful presentation. It was an honor and pleasure to work with Mr. Makovsky."

-MERCAZ Dahan Center for Jewish Life and Learning, Beth Tfiloh Congregation

"He was great and very delightful. He had time to visit with some of the families in our community which the everyone really enjoyed. Thanks again! Shabbat Shalom!"

-Youngstown Area Jewish Federation
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Keynote - Book Release Event: "Be Strong and of Good Courage" | The Washington Institute [1:32:26] - Get Sharable Link
Talks & Conversations with David Makovsky
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The Relationship Between U.S. and Israel: An Inside Perspective

U.S. foreign policy expert DAVID MAKOVSKY’s opinions shape the U.S. approach to action in the Middle East. He has testified before the full U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, the full U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs, and on multiple occasions before the House of R ...

U.S. foreign policy expert DAVID MAKOVSKY’s opinions shape the U.S. approach to action in the Middle East. He has testified before the full U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, the full U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs, and on multiple occasions before the House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs Middle East Subcommittee. He has also worked in the Office of the U.S. Secretary of State, serving as a senior advisor to the Special Envoy for Israeli-Palestinian Negotiations. In this enlightening conversation, Makovsky presents the past, present, and possible future of U.S.-Israel relations.

The Israel-Hamas War: What It Means, What Do We Learn and Where Does it Go?

In his position as a distinguished fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, DAVID MAKOVSKY follows Middle East developments very closely, often traveling to the region even during times of crisis. He is respected for his analysis about developments in the Mideast and the way that the ...

In his position as a distinguished fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, DAVID MAKOVSKY follows Middle East developments very closely, often traveling to the region even during times of crisis. He is respected for his analysis about developments in the Mideast and the way that the Biden Administration at the White House, State Department, and other parts of the government formulate Mideast policy at the time of crisis. Makovsky draws on his experiences as a former senior advisor to the Secretary of State to analyze the potential impact of today’s Mideast and Israeli news on communities, organizations, and markets. In this accessible, informative conversation, Makovsky leverages his role as a Washington insider with powerful connections to shed light on the region’s current climate.

Profiles of Mideast Leaders: What Are Their Priorities? Who Are Their Successors? What Should We Know?

DAVID MAKOVSKY has been following Mideast leaders for decades. He has enjoyed wonderful access during his travels. He understands how each key leader sees the region: their motivations, their political environment, and their policy objectives. In his book co-authored with Dennis Ross, Be Strong and ...

DAVID MAKOVSKY has been following Mideast leaders for decades. He has enjoyed wonderful access during his travels. He understands how each key leader sees the region: their motivations, their political environment, and their policy objectives. In his book co-authored with Dennis Ross, Be Strong and of Good Courage: How Israel’s Most Important Leaders Shaped Its Destiny, Makovsky provides a thoughtful portrait of four Israeli leaders, looking at their decisions that shaped the country and the Mideast. In this talk, Makovsky provides an accessible profile of each key leader in this important region.

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Speaker News

David Makovsky’s ‘Myths, Illusions, and Peace: Finding a New Direction for America in the Middle East’ illuminates the U.S.’s positionality in the region

Foreign policy expert DAVID MAKOVSKY’s Washington Post bestseller, Myths, Illusions, and Peace: Finding a New Direction for America in the Middle East, is a must-read for anyone looking to better understand the U.S.’s history and position in the Middle East. With a depth of journalistic experience, Makovsky combines true stories with high-level analysis in a way that is as digestible, accessible, and informative as his live events. 

Makovsky discusses his first-hand experience in diplomatic correspondence to engage audiences in the thought projects of peace. Makovsky previously served as the Executive Editor of the Jerusalem Post and was the diplomatic correspondent for Ha’aretz, as well as contributing editor to U.S. News and World Report. He has won the National Press Club’s Edwin M. Hood Award for Diplomatic Correspondence. As a former journalist and current professor, Makovsky is an expert in breaking down nuanced geopolitical topics involving the U.S. in Middle East for any audience.

Watch David Makovsky in conversation at the Pinsker Center here >>

Watch David Makovsky’s keynote address at BESA here >>

American Campuses, Israel, and the Mideast: Should Americans Be Alarmed?

Long-time professor of Middle East studies DAVID MAKOVSKY brings his energy, knowledge, and passion for peace to colleges and universities worldwide. Over the past decade, Makovsky has made over 175 college visits about Israel-Palestine coexistence and the peace process. A great fit for any group, Makovsky loves to engage with difficult questions. His conversations prioritize respect, openness, and honesty. 

A long-time adjunct professor of Middle East Studies at Johns Hopkins University in the School of Advanced International Studies, Makovsky is deeply knowledgeable, highlighting timely scholarship and news topics. He provides an informed perspective rooted in historical facts, addressing sensitive, high-profile issues with the utmost care. Iowa State University said, “David was great with the students and community members in the audience… several faculty members spoke highly of his presentation and his handling of the difficult questions that followed!”

Watch David Makovsky in conversation at the American Enterprise Institute here >>

Watch David Makovsky’s keynote at Tedx Johns Hopkins here >>

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Books by David Makovsky
Be Strong and of Good Courage: How Israel's Most Important Leaders Shaped Its Destiny

Be Strong and of Good Courage: How Israel's Most Important Leaders Shaped Its Destiny

Myths, Illusions, and Peace: Finding a New Direction for America in the Middle East

Myths, Illusions, and Peace: Finding a New Direction for America in the Middle East

Engagement through Disengagement: Gaza and the Potential for Israeli-Palestinian Peacemaking

Engagement through Disengagement: Gaza and the Potential for Israeli-Palestinian Peacemaking

Making Peace with the PLO: The Rabin Government's Road to the Oslo Accord

Making Peace with the PLO: The Rabin Government's Road to the Oslo Accord

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Press & Media
On BDS, Bring More Minority Students To Israel - The Jewish Week
Shimon Peres was Israel’s quintessential Zionist - Times of Israel
The way forward on settlements: Advice for Trump from two veteran Mideast negotiators - Daily News
If Palestinians are serious about peace, ‘martyr’ violence should not pay - The Washington Post
When International Guarantees Utterly Failed - Jerusalem Post
How Trump could save Palestinian statehood - The Washington Post
Imagining the Border: Options for Resolving the Israeli-Palestinian Territorial Issue - The Washington Institute
Is a two-state solution still possible for Israelis and Palestinians? - The Washington Institute
Israel Signaling a Heavy Price for Iranian 'Entrenchment' in Syria - The Washington Institute
Arab Leaders Need to Step Up to Avert War in Gaza - The Wall Street Journal
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Biography

David Makovsky is the Ziegler distinguished fellow at The Washington Institute and director of the Project on the Middle East Peace Process. He is also an adjunct professor in Middle East studies at Johns Hopkins University's Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). In 2013-2014, he worked in the Office of the U.S. Secretary of State, serving as a senior advisor to the Special Envoy for Israeli-Palestinian Negotiations.

Author of numerous Washington Institute monographs and essays on issues related to the Middle East Peace Process and the Arab-Israeli conflict, he is also coauthor, with Dennis Ross, of the 2009 Washington Post bestseller Myths, Illusions, and Peace: Finding a New Direction for America in the Middle East (Viking/Penguin). His 2011 maps on alternative territorial solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict were reprinted by the New York Times in the paper's first interactive treatment of an op-ed. His widely acclaimed September 2012 New Yorker essay, "The Silent Strike," focused on the U.S.-Israel dynamics leading up to the 2007 Israeli attack on Syrian nuclear facilities.

Mr. Makovsky is a lifetime member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies. His commentary on the peace process and the Arab-Israeli conflict has appeared in the New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, International Herald Tribune, Chicago Tribune, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, and National Interest. He appears frequently in the media to comment on Arab-Israeli affairs, including PBS NewsHour.

He has testified before the full U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, the full U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs, and on multiple occasions before the House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs Middle East Subcommittee.

In last several years, he has made over 120 visits to American college campuses to discuss the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He has done a TEDx talk on this issue for the college audience.

Before joining The Washington Institute, Mr. Makovsky was an award-winning journalist who covered the peace process from 1989 to 2000. He is the former executive editor of the Jerusalem Post, was diplomatic correspondent for Israel's leading daily, Haaretz, and is a former contributing editor to U.S. News and World Report. He served for eleven years as that magazine's special Jerusalem correspondent. He was awarded the National Press Club's 1994 Edwin M. Hood Award for Diplomatic Correspondence for a cover story on PLO finances that he cowrote for the magazine.

In July 1994, as a result of personal intervention by then Secretary of State Warren Christopher, Mr. Makovsky became the first journalist writing for an Israeli publication to visit Damascus. In total, he has made five trips to Syria, the most recent in December 1999 when he accompanied then Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. In March 1995, with assistance from U.S. officials, Mr. Makovsky was given unprecedented permission to file reports from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for an Israeli publication.

A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Mr. Makovsky received a bachelor's degree from Columbia University and a master's degree in Middle East studies from Harvard University.

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