Amos Hochstein, an influential American politician and diplomat, has played a pivotal role in shaping energy policies and diplomatic relations in the Middle East. Born in Israel in 1973 to American Jewish parents, Hochstein's journey began in Jewish education before he served in the Israeli army. His move to Washington D.C. marked the start of a significant career in U.S. politics, where he has held various key positions, including Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Affairs and Special Envoy for International Energy Affairs.
Hochstein's expertise in energy cooperation has been crucial in several high-stakes negotiations, including the historic gas deal between Israel and Jordan in 2014 and the recent maritime border agreement between Lebanon and Israel in October 2022. His diplomatic efforts have extended to addressing tensions with Hezbollah and facilitating energy discussions involving major powers like India and China, as well as navigating sanctions on Iran.
In August 2023, Hochstein returned to Lebanon to explore further negotiations on land border demarcation, showcasing his ongoing commitment to fostering stability in the region. His extensive background in both the public and private sectors, along with his academic ties to institutions like Harvard's Kennedy School, positions him as a key figure in U.S. foreign policy and energy security initiatives.
