Key developments in the negotiations between Israel and Hamas have been highlighted by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Their discussions reveal turning points in reaching a ceasefire in Gaza, stemming from an apology by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a personal moment between Witkoff and Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya.
Background of the Negotiations
The negotiations gained momentum after a breakdown due to Israeli airstrikes targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar. In response, President Donald Trump introduced a 20-point plan intended to resolve the conflict as he met with Netanyahu at the White House.
- Plan called for an immediate ceasefire.
- All Israeli hostages to be released simultaneously.
Key Moments in the Negotiations
One vital element of the plan was the required apology from Netanyahu to Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. Witkoff emphasized that this apology was critical for advancing the talks. “The apology needed to happen. We were not moving forward without that apology,” he stated.
Trump facilitated a phone call between Netanyahu and Al Thani, although it remains unclear if he was aware of the Israeli airstrikes beforehand. Witkoff noted that it was essential to treat the hostages not as assets for Hamas but as liabilities. This approach aimed to shift the power dynamics in the negotiations.
Challenges Faced by Hamas
Despite substantial destruction in Gaza and loss of Palestinian lives, Hamas hesitated in negotiating terms. They expressed concern that releasing the hostages would prompt renewed Israeli military actions.
Diplomatic Breakthroughs
In an unusual move, Trump authorized Kushner and Witkoff to negotiate directly with Hamas, despite the group’s terrorist designation. The duo traveled to Egypt to meet with Khalil al-Hayya on October 8, where they shared mutual condolences over personal losses.
- Witkoff lost his son, Andrew, to an opioid overdose.
- Al-Hayya’s son was killed in an Israeli airstrike.
Such personal exchanges softened the negotiating atmosphere. “It turned from a negotiation with a terrorist group to seeing two human beings,” Kushner remarked. This shift in approach became instrumental in advancing discussions.
Finalizing the Deal
Once an agreement was finalized, Witkoff described the room’s atmosphere as celebratory, with both Israeli and Qatari representatives embracing. “I thought to myself, ‘I wish the world could’ve seen it,’” he expressed.
The developments underscore the complex nature of the Israel-Hamas negotiations, blending strategic, emotional, and humanitarian elements. For further insights into the ongoing peace efforts and their implications, view the full report on El-Balad.
