Reports have surfaced alleging that Morgan Ortagus, a former Trump administration envoy, has been placed on administrative leave due to claims of a romantic relationship with Lebanese banker Antoun Sehnaoui. The controversy is fueled by a leaked receipt for a substantial jewelry purchase, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest given Ortagus’s diplomatic role and Sehnaoui’s complex financial and political ties.
Diplomatic Role and Allegations
Morgan Ortagus, who served as Deputy Special Presidential Envoy for Middle East Peace, has reportedly been placed on administrative leave. This action follows claims circulating in Lebanese and American media outlets about a relationship with Antoun Sehnaoui, a prominent Lebanese banker. The controversy gained traction with the emergence of a leaked receipt from Tiffany & Co. dated December 13-14, 2025, detailing a luxury jewelry purchase of over $59,000. The receipt purportedly lists Sehnaoui as the cardholder and Ortagus’s name alongside the items.
Ortagus, 43, previously held roles as a State Department spokesperson and a Fox News national security contributor. Her diplomatic work included involvement in the Abraham Accords and taking critical stances against Iran and China. Reports suggest Ortagus has been living separately from her husband, Jonathan Weinberger, and their daughter, with frequent travel to Lebanon. Rumors of an affair with Sehnaoui have allegedly been circulating since mid-2025, with some reports indicating she may have filed for divorce.
Banker’s Controversial Connections
Antoun Sehnaoui, 53, is the Chairman and CEO of Societe Generale de Banque au Liban (SGBL), a significant international banking group. Beyond his banking career, Sehnaoui is also involved in film production and the arts. However, his background has drawn scrutiny due to alleged controversial elements. Sources suggest he has faced U.S. court investigations concerning potential money laundering for Hezbollah through his bank, an organization designated as a terrorist group by the United States. Additionally, Sehnaoui has reportedly funded an ultra-right-wing Christian conservative group in Lebanon. Despite these allegations, he has also reportedly supported U.S.-Israeli initiatives.
Ethical and Security Concerns
The alleged relationship between Ortagus and Sehnaoui has sparked concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest and diplomatic ethics. Ortagus’s role in sensitive Middle East peace negotiations and U.S. policy toward Lebanon could be compromised by Sehnaoui’s influence as a key banking figure with alleged ties to contentious networks. The timing of the luxury purchase, shortly before the holiday season, has further fueled speculation. Neither Ortagus nor Sehnaoui has publicly commented on the allegations, and the U.S. State Department has not issued an official statement.