Steve Witkoff, a representative of the 47th U.S. president, Donald Trump, has confirmed his upcoming visit to Israel as part of efforts to oversee the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. Speaking to Fox News, Witkoff stated that the agreement’s success would enable the return of numerous bodies held by the Hamas Terror group in Gaza, and serve as a foundation for regional normalization.
“I Will Be Part of the Monitoring Team”
Witkoff stressed that the main challenge lies in implementing the ceasefire agreement. “I will travel to Israel soon as part of a monitoring team stationed in the Netzarim Corridor, (which divides northern and southern Gaza), to ensure that militants do not move northward,” he explained. According to Witkoff, successful implementation of the agreement will pave the way for the next phase, which involves the return of many bodies. He added, “The implementation of the ceasefire agreement is likely to be more challenging than closing the deal itself.”
Aiming for Regional Normalization
Regarding normalization between Israel and Arab states, Witkoff expressed optimism. “I believe all countries in the region can normalize relations with Israel, including Qatar, which played a critical role in securing the agreement,” he said. Witkoff highlighted that normalization would mark a fundamental shift and lead to economic prosperity, adding, “There will no longer be concerns about missile fire from the Houthis or Hezbollah.” He emphasized that the ceasefire is a crucial first step for this process to succeed.
