Brian Hook, the United States special representative for Iran, is stepping down, according to media reports. Hook's move was confirmed by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday. "Brian Hook has decided to step down from his role," Pompeo said in a statement after Hook revealed his plans to the New York Times. "He successfully negotiated with the Iranians the release of Michael White and Xiyue Wang from prison. Special Representative Hook also served with distinction as the Director of Policy Planning and set into motion a range of new strategies that advanced the national security interests of the United States and our allies," the top US diplomat said. "He has been a trusted adviser to me and a good friend. I thank him for his service." Pompeo later took to Twitter saying: "I thank Special Representative Brian Hook for his 3+ years of service to the State Department and @realDonaldTrump as he moves on to the private sector. He has been a valued member of my leadership team." Hook has served in the special envoy role since August 2018 and will be replaced in the special envoy role by Elliott Abrams, who currently serves as the State Department's special representative for Venezuela. Abrams will, however, maintain that role, Pompeo said. Hook has been a vocal spokesperson for the administration's "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran and his departure comes as the United Nations Security Council prepares to vote next week on a US bid to extend an international arms embargo on Iran. — Agencies
