U.S. Envoys Urge israel to Exercise Restraint as Gaza Ceasefire Remains Fragile
GAZA/WASHINGTON – U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law, have cautioned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin netanyahu against actions that could jeopardize the current ceasefire with Hamas, according to reports from the Times of Israel. The envoys, during a meeting with Netanyahu and senior Israeli military officials, reportedly stated that “self-defense” is permissible but warned against attempts to “adventurize the truce.” They also expressed a desire ”to do everything to reach the second phase” of the Trump administration’s peace plan.
The discussions come amid ongoing efforts to solidify the fragile truce and lay the groundwork for a potential long-term solution. Vice President JD Vance is expected to arrive in Israel on Tuesday, adding further high-level U.S. engagement.
Vance, speaking Sunday evening, acknowledged the volatile nature of the peace process, describing it as having “highs and lows.” He highlighted the fragmented nature of Hamas, stating, “When we talk about Hamas, we are talking about 40 different cells… Some of thes cells will probably respect the ceasefire. Manny of them, as we saw some signs of today, will not.” The Guardian reported that Vance’s comments were perceived by some as downplaying the severity of the situation.
Parallel to the diplomatic efforts, a Palestinian delegation is currently in cairo to discuss the implementation of the second phase of the Trump peace plan. Reuters reports that Hamas chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya is exploring the possibility of an international technocratic body – a “peace council” – governing Gaza without direct hamas involvement.
However, Hamas maintains its insistence on Palestinian leadership in Gaza and opposes demands for disarmament, according to The Guardian. The future of Gaza remains uncertain as negotiations continue and the ceasefire’s durability is tested.
