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US Envoy Urges Netanyahu to Flex in Hamas Talks

5/17/2025

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Witkoff Urges Flexibility

US envoy Steve Witkoff is pushing Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to embrace flexibility in negotiations with Hamas. While talks continue, Netanyahu stands resolute on his demands for the return of captives and Hamas disarmament. In the backdrop, Trump is weighing a fresh Saudi-Emirati proposal aimed at establishing a ceasefire and overseeing reconstruction efforts.

Center

Rubio Calls for Surrender

US diplomat Marco Rubio voiced deep concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for Hamas to surrender. As Israeli strikes intensified, the toll rose to at least 80 lives lost, including innocent children. With the military urging evacuations, indirect ceasefire talks unfold against a backdrop of growing tensions between Trump and Netanyahu.

History

Historical Context

US envoy Steve Witkoff's push for flexibility in Israeli-Hamas negotiations echoes past US diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. Similar to the 1978 Camp David Accords, where intense negotiations led to peace between Israel and Egypt, current dynamics involve complex regional politics. Trump's renewed interest in a ceasefire reflects historical patterns of US influence in Middle Eastern conflicts, often aimed at stabilizing the region amidst humanitarian crises.

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Witkoff Urges Flexibility

US envoy Steve Witkoff is pushing Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to embrace flexibility in negotiations with Hamas. While talks continue, Netanyahu stands resolute on his demands for the return of captives and Hamas disarmament. In the backdrop, Trump is weighing a fresh Saudi-Emirati proposal aimed at establishing a ceasefire and overseeing reconstruction efforts.

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