Contradictory Statements by US Envoy Steve Witkoff on Gaza Ceasefire and Prisoner Swap
US President Donald Trump’s Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff has reportedly made conflicting statements regarding negotiations for a ceasefire and prisoner swap in Gaza.
Kokcha News Agency: US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff has allegedly made contradictory statements during a meeting with Israeli families of hostages in Tel Aviv. According to Israel’s Haaretz newspaper, Witkoff claimed that Hamas “has agreed to lay down arms” while also blaming Hamas for the failure to reach an agreement.
Witkoff reportedly told the families that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to end the war and that Hamas has agreed to disarm. However, he also stated that Israel would not accept any deal unless all Israeli hostages are released, contradicting earlier reports of progress.
Witkoff defended the Netanyahu government, telling the families, “You have lost trust in the Israeli government, and I understand why, but Donald Trump is on your side.” He added that they are in a period of tough decision-making.
“The Situation is Very Complicated”
While claiming that Hamas has agreed to disarm, Witkoff also told the families, “I wish I could give you perfect news, but the situation is very complicated,” accusing Hamas of failing to honor its commitments.
Meanwhile, Israeli state television KAN claimed that Witkoff did not say Hamas “agreed to disarm,” but rather that Hamas “showed interest in disarming.”
Hamas Denies Claims
Hamas issued a statement on its Telegram account, denying Witkoff’s reported claims. The group emphasized that “resistance and arms are a national and legal right as long as the occupation continues,” reaffirming that Palestinians will not lay down their arms until their national rights, including the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital, are fully realized.
