Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Witkoff: ‘No alternative’ for Hamas but to exit Gaza

Hamas must leave the Gaza Strip, Steve Witkoff, the U.S. special envoy to the Middle East, told the “America’s Newsroom” program on Fox News on Monday shortly before flying to Qatar for continued talks on a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. Witkoff said of the terrorist group that has ruled the Gaza Strip since 2007 that it must demilitarize, disarm and depart.  

 “There’s no logical or rational choice for them other than to leave. If they leave, then I think all things are on the table for a negotiated peace deal, and that’s what they’re going to need to do,” Witkoff said.

Of the hostages, he said the conditions in which they’re being kept are unacceptable. “We’ve interviewed all the hostages who have been released. The conditions are deplorable. … They’re sick. They haven’t eaten. They haven’t been given medical care. It’s it’s a terrible proposition for them,” he said. The Trump administration is pushing for a deal that would secure the release of all remaining hostages, extend the ceasefire through Ramadan and Passover, and potentially lead to a long-term truce.  (Read More)