US Envoy Witkoff: Hamas Rejects Demilitarization, War Continues in Gaza
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff stated Hamas declined opportunities for demilitarization and rejected a bridging proposal, thus leading to renewed violence in Gaza. He reaffirmed US support for Israel and addressed concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear capabilities. A bridging proposal exists to extend the ceasefire and facilitate hostage releases, but time is running short for negotiations.
United States Special Envoy Steve Witkoff indicated that Hamas had multiple opportunities to demilitarize and accept a bridging proposal but chose to decline. During his interview with Fox News, Witkoff remarked, “they elected not to,” emphasizing that Hamas is the primary aggressor in the ongoing conflict, with the United States firmly supporting Israel.
Witkoff attributed the resurgence of violence in Gaza to Hamas’s refusal to engage with previously accepted negotiations. He also addressed the issue of Iran, asserting that they must not gain access to nuclear weapons, proclaiming, “It cannot happen, and it will not happen.” Furthermore, he suggested that diplomatic discussions between the US and Iran are necessary to achieve mutual understanding.
Looking towards international affairs, Witkoff expressed optimism regarding high-level discussions aimed at resolving the war in Ukraine, confidently stating that Russian President Vladimir Putin desires peace. The US State Department subsequently confirmed an ongoing “bridge proposal” aimed at extending the ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting a diminishing window for negotiations.
The bridging proposal envisions a ceasefire extension and the release of five hostages, including an American named Edan Alexander, while also returning a significant number of Palestinians incarcerated in Israeli facilities. A spokesperson from the State Department noted, “The opportunity is still there, but it’s closing fast,” underscoring the urgency for action.
Hamas’s decision to reject the demilitarization proposal reflects its role as the aggressor in the ongoing conflict, as stated by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. The US maintains its support for Israel, while also addressing concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions through potential diplomatic avenues. The bridging proposal aimed at extending the Gaza ceasefire remains available but must be acted upon swiftly to be effective.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
