US Envoy Steve Witkoff has stated that engaging in dialogue with Hamas is a necessity and that he would do so again if required. He also emphasized the importance of reopening the Rafah crossing, which is controlled by Israel, to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.
Speaking at a press conference in Florida, Witkoff addressed the issue of the Rafah crossing, stating, “We have to open it. We promised to.” He acknowledged Israel’s condition for reopening the crossing, which involves the return of the remains of the last Israeli soldier held in Gaza.
Regarding Israel’s stance, Witkoff suggested that it was partly about building trust. “Moving to Phase Two is critically important for the Palestinians and the Israelis. We need to live in peace,” he asserted.
Israel has maintained control over the Rafah crossing since May 2024, severely restricting the flow of humanitarian aid. This has exacerbated the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza, creating an unprecedented crisis.
Witkoff also expressed optimism regarding Hamas’s potential willingness to disarm, stating that he would meet with their leaders again if necessary. He highlighted a previous meeting between himself, Jared Kushner, and a Hamas delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, where Hamas reportedly agreed to a plan to end the Israeli war on Gaza.
“I met with Hamas, and that was the key to the agreement. It was the turning point in the peace agreement [ceasefire in Gaza],” Witkoff stated. “And it may become necessary for us to meet with them again. We can prove that disarmament is the best option for achieving long-term peace.”
Despite ongoing Israeli actions in Gaza, Witkoff spoke of a plan to rebuild the region, envisioning it as “a wonderful place.”
Following delays by Israel in transitioning to Phase Two of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, Witkoff announced on Wednesday the commencement of this phase, which includes disarmament, the formation of a technocratic government, and the commencement of reconstruction efforts.
