Was Steve Witkoff Misled by Netanyahu? Inside the Diplomatic Fallout
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with the paper asserting that only Donald Trump can push Israel toward a hostage deal and end the war in Gaza.
Six Months In, Steve Witkoff’s Promises Unfulfilled
Haaretz reports that after six months in his role, Witkoff’s bold promises have largely unraveled. Initially energetic and optimistic, he approached diplomacy like a real estate deal—contributing significantly to the January agreement. However, his lack of regional expertise and limited understanding of Netanyahu’s tactics led to stalled efforts.
Netanyahu’s Conditions Prolong the Gaza War
The paper accuses Netanyahu of intentionally setting terms that Hamas would reject, effectively prolonging the conflict in Gaza. Witkoff’s proposed partial ceasefires and hostage exchange plans have collapsed, further straining U.S. mediation efforts.
Regional Efforts Collapse Amid Humanitarian Crisis
Despite U.S.–Qatari–Egyptian mediation, no breakthrough has been reached. Instead, the outcome has been a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Talks with Iran and Russia have also failed to progress.
Hamas Denies Disarmament Claims
In a meeting with families of Israeli hostages, Witkoff claimed Hamas agreed to disarm—a statement quickly denied by the group, which reiterated its refusal to disarm without the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
Haaretz described the claim as a moral boost tactic and a sign that the U.S. is abandoning gradual diplomacy in favor of a comprehensive solution.
U.S. May Take Over Humanitarian Aid Distribution
The visit also aimed to promote an alternative humanitarian initiative, which may involve the U.S. removing control over aid from Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, signaling a potential policy shift.
Haaretz: Trump Must Step In
The paper concludes that Steve Witkoff can only blame Trump for fueling far-right ambitions with ideas like “voluntary migration”, which empowered extremist pressure on Netanyahu. Ultimately, Haaretz argues, Trump alone holds the political leverage to push Netanyahu toward an agreement—if Qatar fulfills its commitments.
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