US envoy to the Middle East George Mitchell is resigning after two years in the role, the White House says.
Mr Mitchell, a former senator and broker of the peace deal in Northern Ireland, is stepping down for personal reasons, the Associated Press reported.
He has shuttled between the Israelis and Palestinians trying to bring the two sides together for peace talks.
US President Barack Obama said Mr Mitchell had "contributed immeasurably" to the peace process.
In a letter to the president announcing his resignation, Mr Mitchell said he had taken the job with the expectation of serving in the position for two years.
He also said in the letter: "I strongly support your vision of comprehensive peace in the Middle East and thank you for giving me the opportunity to be part of your administration."
Mr Obama said in a statement: "As he returns to his family, George leaves behind a proud legacy of dedicated public service and the country owes him a debt of gratitude for his extraordinary commitment."
He praised Mr Mitchell's "deep commitment to resolving conflict and advancing democracy".
US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said: "As well as anyone in his generation, George understands the slow, hard work of diplomacy, the art of compromise and the indispensable role of American leadership in the world."
She appointed Deputy Middle East Envoy David Hale to serve as acting envoy. Mr Mitchell's resignation will be effective from 20 May.
September talksMr Mitchell, 77, was appointed Middle East envoy by President Barack Obama in early 2009. [Read More]
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