U.S. Envoys Visit Israel Amid Tensions Over Gaza and Iran

United States Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former President Donald Trump, are scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The discussions, set for Saturday night, will focus on the implementation of phase two of Trump's Gaza peace deal, including the disarmament of Hamas and the return of Ran Gvili, the last Israeli hostage whose remains are still in Gaza. Concurrently, General Brad Cooper, head of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), will also meet with Israeli officials to discuss U.S. intervention in Iranian anti-regime protests.

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The visit occurs during a period of heightened tension between Israel and the U.S., marking the most strained relations since Trump took office. Recent comments by Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos have exacerbated these tensions, as he claimed that the technology behind Israel's Iron Dome defense system is "entirely American," urging Netanyahu to stop taking credit for it. This statement has drawn criticism from Israeli officials who feel it undermines Israel's contributions.

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The U.S. is pressing Israel to reopen the Rafah border crossing to facilitate the reconstruction of Gaza under Trump's vision, which includes the establishment of a Board of Peace. Israeli officials have expressed frustration over the inclusion of Turkey and Qatar in this new administrative committee, viewing it as a unilateral move by the U.S. that was not coordinated with Israel. A senior Israeli official described this as "revenge" for Netanyahu's refusal to reopen Rafah before Gvili's remains are returned.

Witkoff and Kushner head to Israel as Gaza plan dubbed 'revenge against Netanyahu'

Critics within Israel argue that the U.S. approach, particularly the establishment of the Board of Peace, contradicts Israeli policy and undermines its security interests. The Israeli government has voiced concerns that the committee's formation was not discussed with them, leading to accusations of a lack of respect for Israel's sovereignty in negotiations.

Witkoff and Kushner head to Israel as Gaza plan dubbed 'revenge against Netanyahu'

There are conflicting reports regarding the status of Ran Gvili's remains, with U.S. officials assuring Israel of their commitment to locating them, while Israeli sources indicate that the reopening of the Rafah crossing is being used as leverage against Hamas.

Trump's Gaza Plan Moves Forward Over Israel's Security Cabinet's Head

• “If you believe in peace — it is possible.” — Jared Kushner, U.S. White House Adviser

Witkoff and Kushner head to Israel as Gaza plan dubbed 'revenge against Netanyahu'

• “Israel will act with determination and strength in order to return all our hostages and defeat Hamas.” — Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel

Benjamin Netanyahu met US Senator Ernst at Jerusalem Office

• “Preventing [Netanyahu], or, for that matter, [Gallant,] from attending a global forum aiming to shape the future of the Middle East by such legal means is a reward for terror,” — Isaac Herzog, President of Israel

Meeting UN General Assembly head, Herzog calls ICC warrant against Netanyahu a ‘reward for terror’

As diplomatic discussions unfold, Netanyahu is considering attending an upcoming AIPAC conference in Washington, which may include a meeting with Trump. This visit could further influence the dynamics of U.S.-Israel relations, particularly in light of ongoing tensions with Iran and the implications of the Gaza reconstruction efforts.

Benjamin Netanyahu weighs US trip for AIPAC conference, Donald Trump summit