Iran-born Ellie Cohanim joins US UN Mission as senior policy advisor, UN ambassador announces

Cohanim has been a longtime anti-regime advocate, and has also used her platforms to spread awareness about the global rise in antisemitism.

Newly appointed Senior Policy Advisor at the US Mission to the United Nations Ellie Cohanim with US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz.

(photo credit: USUN/X)

ByLEO FEIERBERG BETTER

JULY 3, 2026 19:12

Updated: JULY 3, 2026 19:16

The US Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, has named Ellie Cohanim as Senior Policy Advisor at the US Mission to the United Nations this week, according to a press statement from the mission on Tuesday.

Born in Tehran, Cohanim's family fled the country after the 1979 Islamic Revolution and rebuilt their lives in New York.

“Ellie’s story is the American story. Her family’s story has shaped her lifelong commitment to freedom, human dignity, and American leadership,” the statement said.

Cohanim's diplomatic work is extensive, serving as deputy special envoy to monitor and combat antisemitism during the first Trump administration and playing an instrumental role on the Abraham Accords “Warm Peace” team, facilitating partnerships with Arab nations.

Waltz added that she has since dedicated her career to serving the United States by defending freedom, supporting persecuted communities, and speaking out against antisemitism. He described her appointment as reflecting the kind of conviction and courage needed at the United Nations.

Cohanim made a career in media but has served in a previous administration

Cohanim has been a longtime anti-regime advocate, and has also used her platforms to spread awareness about the global rise in antisemitism.

Cohanim has appeared on numerous TV programs, including Fox News, CBN News, and others, giving her voice as an expert on foreign policy.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Waltz said he was “proud to have Ellie Cohanim on our side” at the US Mission to the United Nations.

“Few know the Iranian regime like Ellie. Born in Tehran, raised in Queens, just like President Trump, she’s a fighter. For America. Against antisemitism. For our freedom. Glad to have her in the fight,” Waltz wrote.

She has also been a correspondent for Jewish Broadcasting Service and a presenter for Al Arabiya English.

Moreover, Cohanim holds a Senior Fellow role at the Independent Women's Forum public policy organization.

Additionally, she served on the Trump-Vance Presidential Transition's National Security/State Department Team.