U.S. Envoy Accuses Netanyahu of Prolonging Gaza War
Steve Witkoff Criticizes Israel’s Refusal to End the War Despite Stalled Progress and Growing Pressure Over Hostage Crisis.
Watan-U.S. Presidential Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, confirmed on Sunday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is deliberately prolonging the war on Gaza.
Witkoff’s remarks came during a meeting with families of Israeli captives held by Palestinian factions in Gaza, according to Israel’s Channel 12, which did not specify the exact date or location of the meeting.
“We want to bring the captives home, but Israel is not prepared to end the war,” Witkoff reportedly said, citing sources present at the meeting.
Israel estimates that 59 of its citizens are being held in Gaza, 21 of whom are still alive. Meanwhile, over 9,900 Palestinians are imprisoned in Israeli jails, reportedly suffering from torture, starvation, and medical neglect—conditions that have led to numerous deaths, according to both Palestinian and Israeli rights groups and media.
Witkoff Blames Netanyahu for Dragging Out Gaza War as Trump Sidelines Israel in Regional Tour
Witkoff sharply criticized Netanyahu’s handling of the situation in Gaza, stating that Israel is “prolonging the war even though we see no clear path forward. A deal must be reached.”
Hamas has repeatedly stated its willingness to begin comprehensive negotiations to release all Israeli captives “in one go,” in exchange for halting the genocide, a full Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of Palestinian prisoners.
Witkoff’s criticism comes just days before President Donald Trump is set to tour the region from May 13 to 16, visiting Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE—noticeably excluding Israel from the itinerary.
Recent American and Israeli media reports suggest growing tension between Trump and Netanyahu, with claims that Trump has decided to move forward on Middle East policy independently of the Israeli Prime Minister.
According to the Israeli Channel 12, Witkoff’s remarks come at a sensitive moment, as Israel reportedly prepares to escalate its military campaign in Gaza immediately following Trump’s regional visit.
