Israel-Iran: US messenger Steve Witchoff is the head of the Middle East; ‘Strong Hope’ for human corridor
US President Donald Trump’s special messenger, Steve Witchoff, is traveling the Middle East as Washington again tries to secure a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The conflict has been dragged for more than 21 months, the condition of Gaza is deteriorating, especially for people trying to get food and help. State Department spokesman Tammy Bruce told reporters on Tuesday that Vitkoff was going with “strong hope” to finalize a ceasefire deal and help establish a new human corridor. “I would suggest that we may have some good news, but, again, it may be constantly changing dynamic,” Bruce said. He did not share details of Vitkof’s travel plans or meetings. The announcement took place on Sunday at least 85 Palestinians on Sunday, trying to reach food for people seeking assistance. The Israeli army claimed that it only fired a warning shot and said that the toll of death was being exaggerated. But the United Nations Food Agency accused the Israeli forces of directly firing on the mob. Bruce called the incident on the Zikim crossing “absolutely terrible” and stated that it was shown why there was an immediate need for a human corridor as part of any ceasefire.
The conversation between Israel and Hamas has been going on in Qatar for weeks. The US has proposed a 60-day ceasefire, during which Hamas will issue some hostage, Israel will free Palestinian prisoners, and will enter more assistance to Gaza. During this period, negotiations on a permanent peace will begin. But both sides are firm. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants to keep fighting until Hamas is defeated and canceled. Hamas says that it will not release all the hostages until the war is completely eliminated – and the guarantee wants the Israel to resume after 60 days, as if it happened in March.
