Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, has presented a new plan to end the Gaza war, claiming it is being developed in coordination with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Speaking during a meeting with families of Israeli hostages, Witkoff said the plan includes Gaza’s reconstruction and could mark the war’s effective end. His visit comes as Israel faces growing international condemnation over mass starvation and civilian suffering in Gaza.
The White House has yet to respond to Witkoff’s remarks. He stated that Hamas is willing to disarm, though the group has publicly rejected disarmament without recognition of a sovereign Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. Witkoff’s comments follow the collapse of indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas for a 60-day ceasefire and partial hostage release.
On Saturday, Hamas released a disturbing second video of Israeli hostage Evyatar David, showing him emaciated and digging a grave he claims is his own. His brother, Ilay, said hostages are on the brink of death. Thousands rallied in Tel Aviv, demanding the hostages’ release. Israel’s Foreign Minister called the starvation and abuse of hostages “deliberate sadism” and urged the world not to remain silent.
Witkoff met Netanyahu on Thursday, as Israeli officials reported progress toward a joint understanding with Washington. The developing plan includes full hostage release, Hamas disarmament, and Gaza’s demilitarization—core demands by Israel for ending the war. Meanwhile, Qatar, Egypt, France, and Saudi Arabia have backed a two-state roadmap, urging Hamas to hand over control to the Palestinian Authority.
While humanitarian efforts continue, Gaza’s crisis worsens. The UN and aid agencies warn that airdrops are not enough and that land routes must be reopened. Over 60,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began, and dozens more are dying from hunger due to Israel’s months-long blockade. Only 20 of the 50 remaining hostages are believed to still be alive, according to Israeli estimates.