Steve Witkoff, President Trump's Middle East envoy, announced his intention to secure an extension of the initial phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and hostage release agreement. He plans to return to the region this week, likely Wednesday, to negotiate this extension, aiming to create sufficient time to initiate and conclude Phase Two, which involves the liberation of additional hostages and further dialogue progression.
Witkoff's announcement followed a meeting in Washington, D.C., with Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, a close advisor to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During an interview on CNN's "State of the Union," Witkoff addressed questions regarding Netanyahu's intentions, specifically whether he aims to proceed with the ceasefire or resume hostilities to dismantle Hamas. Witkoff expressed confidence in Netanyahu's commitment to the hostages' release and Israel's security, emphasizing the Prime Minister's firm stance against Hamas' involvement in any future governing body in Gaza.
In a separate appearance on CBS' "Face the Nation," Witkoff detailed his upcoming travel plans, which include visits to Qatar, Egypt, Israel, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. He underscored the prioritization of securing the release of Edan Alexander, the last known living American hostage. Witkoff affirmed his confidence in Alexander's eventual return, highlighting it as a key objective for President Trump.
Witkoff outlined the terms of Phase Two, which encompass a permanent ceasefire, a complete cessation of violence, and the exclusion of Hamas from Gaza's government. He suggested the necessity of Hamas's departure, possibly physical removal, from the region. While unable to disclose potential host countries for displaced Gazans, Witkoff stressed the need for an extensive reconstruction plan, predicting Gaza's uninhabitability for the next 15 to 20 years.
The Israeli Prime Minister's Office recently announced a postponement of the planned release of Palestinian prisoners, citing Hamas's violations of the agreement, including the disrespectful treatment of hostages during handover ceremonies. Netanyahu condemned Hamas's actions, particularly the initial withholding of Shiri Bibas's remains, whose two young sons were also killed. Hamas eventually returned her remains after a tense standoff. Six more Israeli hostages were released on Saturday, but approximately 60 remain captive, with roughly half presumed dead by Israel.
As part of the Phase One agreement, Israel committed to releasing almost 2,000 prisoners and detainees in return for the remaining hostages. The October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and the capture of around 250 individuals. Netanyahu vowed to pursue justice for the executed hostages.
