U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff Makes Unannounced Visit to Israel for Talks on Hostage Recovery, Gaza Aid

Steve Witkoff, a senior figure in the U.S. administration, has made an unannounced visit to Israel to discuss alternative plans for the recovery of hostages held by Hamas and to explore expanded humanitarian aid routes to Gaza, according to Alqahera News.

The visit, which was not disclosed in advance, comes at a critical time in U.S.-Israeli relations, particularly in the context of stalled ceasefire negotiations and the ongoing hostage crisis. Gaber noted that Witkoff is expected to meet with several senior Israeli officials, possibly including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to discuss backup strategies recently referenced by President Donald Trump following the failure of recent proposals to Hamas.

The trip, Gaber explained, comprises two key parts. The first phase in Israel focuses on coordinating humanitarian assistance to Gaza via the “Gaza Humanitarian Foundation,” an initiative supported by the U.S. 

The second phase may involve a direct visit by Witkoff to Gaza, where he is expected to inspect aid distribution centers and evaluate relief operations on the ground — part of Trump’s efforts to obtain a firsthand understanding of the humanitarian situation in the Strip.

The U.S. State Department, through spokesperson Tammy Bruce, announced Tuesday that President Trump intends to significantly increase humanitarian aid to Gaza. Full details of the plan are expected following Witkoff’s assessment and subsequent report.

It's worth mentioning that Witkoff’s agenda includes a planned meeting with Netanyahu and a possible visit to Gaza during the current trip.