The US envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, called for a historic visit to Gaza. This is the first visit by a US official to the territory in over a decade. His visit began at an UNRWA aid distribution center in Rafah, in southern Gaza. Having an influence on international pressure on Israel to allow food and medical supplies to enter the region, the vote could not come at a more opportune moment. Witkoff’s trip is particularly notable as it takes place shortly after the US withdrew from ceasefire negotiations, citing Hamas’ “bad faith” in discussions.
Witkoff is in Gaza with US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee Witkoff’s presence in Gaza is intended to highlight the urgency of the humanitarian crisis. The trip, announced by the White House in advance, was notable for its focus on going to specific locations where aid was being delivered across Gaza. This is Witkoff’s second trip to the enclave—his first visit happened just weeks after President Donald Trump was inaugurated.
While in Israel, Witkoff addressed the visit with a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem before continuing to Gaza. This very high-level meeting reveals the deep and abiding collaborative relations the US is deathly afraid of. Forming a powerful partnership, together they’ve built upon the immense challenge of the former industrial region.
The recent withdrawal of US and Israeli delegations from ceasefire discussions in Qatar has intensified scrutiny of Hamas and its negotiating tactics. The Biden administration has echoed these sentiments, calling Hamas’ actions counterproductive to achieving peace.
The US has no greater friend than the actively engaged humanitarian responders to this worsening crisis. To that end, it is working with the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Jordan and Canada to coordinate airdrops of humanitarian supplies into Gaza. This collective action reflects a commitment to meeting the urgent needs of civilians caught in the crossfire of an unresolved conflict.
Through his visits to aid delivery locations, Witkoff is able to see firsthand the situation on the ground in Gaza. He assesses what more should be done to facilitate humanitarian aid. This visit conveys a powerful and important message of commitment to assistance. Quezon acknowledges the complexities at play in the region’s peace negotiations.
