Trump Envoy Accuses “Israel” of Sabotaging Captive Deal, Urges Ceasefire in Gaza

By Staff, Agencies

US President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, publicly criticized “Israel” for prolonging the war on Gaza and obstructing efforts to reach a ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement.

His remarks came during a meeting with families of captives held in Gaza by Palestinian resistance factions, according to “Israeli” Channel 12.

“We want to bring the hostages home, but ‘Israel’ is not prepared to end the war,” Witkoff reportedly said, adding that the “Israeli” government is dragging out the war despite a lack of further progress. He described the current moment as a “window of opportunity” that all mediators should seize to finalize a deal.

Witkoff’s statements coincided with reports that Hamas is prepared to release “Israeli”-American soldier Alexander Idan following discussions with the US administration.

His comments come ahead of Trump’s planned tour of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, notably excluding a stop in “Israel” — a move widely interpreted as a sign of deepening tensions between Trump and “Israeli” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

US and “Israeli” media have highlighted growing friction between the two allies, with the Trump camp signaling it may take independent steps in the region without aligning with Netanyahu’s hardline policies.

Meanwhile, “Israel” continues its brutal war on Gaza, which has left over 52,800 Palestinians dead since October 2023 — the overwhelming majority being women and children. Humanitarian aid has been blocked at Gaza’s crossings since March 2, leaving 2.4 million residents facing famine conditions.

“Israeli” prisons currently hold more than 9,900 Palestinians, with rights groups documenting systemic torture, starvation and medical neglect that have led to numerous deaths in custody.

The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former War Minister Yoav Gallant last November over war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. In parallel, “Israel” is facing a genocide case before the International Court of Justice.

Despite “Israel’s” obstruction, the call for an immediate ceasefire and captive resolution continues to grow, both internationally and within occupied Palestine.