Trumps Envoy Forces Ceasefire Negotiations Between Netanyahu and the US

Donald Trumps special envoy, Steve Witkoff, played a significant role in forcing negotiations between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the United States regarding a ceasefire in Gaza.The discussions aimed to secure the release of the remaining hostages before Trumps inauguration on January20.Witkoffs approach prioritized diplomacy over religious considerations,disregarding the restrictions of the Jewish Sabbath.

According to reports from Haaretz,Witkoff, who had been in Doha for a week participating in negotiations,contacted the Israeli government on Friday evening. He informed them of his intention to arrive in Jerusalem the following afternoon to finalize the ceasefire agreement. However, Netanyahu's aides warned that the prime minister would not be available until the evening due to the observance of the Sabbath,a day of rest and worship in Judaism.

This delay was unacceptable to Witkoff, who reportedly expressed his lack of concern for religious customs. Despite initial resistance, Netanyahu eventually agreed to meet the envoy on Saturday afternoon.Witkoff,a real estate developer with close ties to Trump and no prior political experience, adopted an aggressive and unconventional style in his diplomatic efforts. An unnamed senior Israeli diplomat described him as indifferent to diplomatic ethics and protocols, emphasizing his focus on achieving rapid results.

Trump later claimed credit for the ceasefire, labeling it a historic achievement made possible by his electoral victory. He praised Witkoff as a relentless advocate for peace. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden’s administration viewed the agreement as the culmination of their extensive efforts over the past fifteen months.

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