Envoy Meets Netanyahu as Humanitarian Crisis Worsens in Gaza
U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified calls for Hamas to surrender and release all hostages, calling it the “fastest way to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.” Trump made the remarks on his Truth Social platform as U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff arrived in Israel on Thursday to push forward ceasefire negotiations and accelerate humanitarian aid to the besieged enclave.
Witkoff met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid mounting global concern over the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where a global food monitor has warned that famine is unfolding. A senior Israeli official, following the meeting, indicated that discussions are shifting from a temporary truce to a more comprehensive agreement—one that includes the full release of hostages, the disarmament of Hamas, and the demilitarisation of the Gaza Strip.
Although no clear details of the proposed plan have been released, the official said Israel and the United States had agreed on the need to increase humanitarian aid flows even as military operations continue. Witkoff is expected to travel to Gaza on Friday to assess food delivery operations. The White House stated he will brief Trump upon his return to finalize a strategy for delivering aid into the region more efficiently.
Stalemated Talks and Growing Civilian Toll
Indirect ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel, hosted in Doha, broke down last week. Israel recently responded to Hamas’ latest amendments to a U.S.-brokered 60-day ceasefire proposal, but the Palestinian group has yet to comment.
Meanwhile, the civilian toll in Gaza continues to rise. Medical officials reported 23 deaths across the territory on Thursday, including 12 individuals killed near the Netzarim corridor while trying to receive food aid. The Israeli military claimed its forces only fired warning shots and did not confirm casualties.
According to Gaza’s health ministry, at least 156 people—mostly children—have died from starvation or malnutrition, with many deaths occurring in recent weeks. Under international pressure, Israel announced on Sunday that it would pause operations for 10 hours daily in parts of Gaza to allow aid convoys safe passage. However, residents still face risks from both Israeli forces and internal unrest when attempting to access vital supplies.
The humanitarian crisis and nearly two years of war have led to increased pressure on Hamas to agree to a ceasefire. Locals in Gaza and Israeli citizens alike have begun calling for an end to hostilities. Protests are expected in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem demanding that the Netanyahu government reach a deal.
International Pressure Mounts for Political Solution
While the Biden administration, alongside Qatar and Egypt, continues to support negotiations, the international community is growing more vocal. A recent declaration by France and Saudi Arabia calls for a two-state solution and urges Hamas to relinquish control of Gaza and hand over weapons to the Palestinian Authority (PA).
Netanyahu’s coalition has rejected PA governance over Gaza, while Hamas has refused to disarm. Israel has also condemned moves by countries like France, Canada, and the UK to consider recognizing a Palestinian state, arguing such recognition rewards Hamas for its October 7, 2023, attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and resulted in the abduction of 251 hostages.
Despite the political impasse, Trump reiterated U.S. humanitarian efforts, stating that financial aid is being provided to alleviate hunger. “It’s terrible what’s occurring there… People are very hungry,” he told reporters, acknowledging the growing crisis but doubling down on his demand: Hamas must surrender.
