David Makovsky is an American journalist, policy analyst, and expert on Israeli politics and the Middle East peace process. Born on June 21, 1960, he serves as the Ziegler Distinguished Fellow and director of the Project on the Middle East Peace Process at The Washington Institute for Near East Policy (WINEP), a prominent think tank in Washington, D.C. He is also an adjunct professor in the Middle Eastern Studies program at Johns Hopkins University's Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), where he teaches courses on Israeli politics and regional dynamics. Makovsky's professional background includes journalism, having worked as a correspondent and former editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post, and as a senior producer for PBS's The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer. He has authored or co-authored several books on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including 'Myths and Facts: A Concise Guide to the Arab-Israeli Conflict' and 'Engaging the Enemy.' His work often emphasizes pragmatic approaches to peace negotiations, drawing on his deep knowledge of Israeli society and leadership. Makovsky has advised U.S. policymakers, including during the Obama administration's Middle East initiatives, and frequently appears as a commentator on major networks. Throughout his career, Makovsky has been involved in track-two diplomacy and public engagement on Middle East issues, fostering dialogue between Israeli and Palestinian stakeholders. His analyses are noted for their detail-oriented approach to political mappings and negotiation strategies, though he has faced criticism from some quarters for perceived pro-Israel biases in his commentary. Makovsky continues to influence U.S. foreign policy discourse on the region through his roles at WINEP and SAIS.