Trump's Envoy Meets Netanyahu to Push for Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Release Before Inauguration

Jan 11, 2025, 01:45 PM

Steve Witkoff, the incoming US envoy to the Middle East appointed by President-elect Donald Trump, has been actively engaged in efforts to secure a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza. Witkoff met with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman al-Thani in Doha on Friday to discuss the negotiations. Following these talks, Witkoff traveled to Israel on Saturday, where he met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During their meeting, Witkoff emphasized Trump's desire to see a deal reached before his inauguration on January 20. Netanyahu, in response, has directed a high-level Israeli delegation, including Mossad Director David Barnea, to travel to Doha to advance the negotiations. Progress has been reported in the indirect talks between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, with the aim of halting the fighting in Gaza and freeing Israeli hostages held by Hamas.