CIA Misinforms US Envoys on Hamas Ceasefire Intentions Amid Middle East Peace Talks

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner revealed in recent interviews that despite CIA intelligence indicating Hamas was unlikely to accept the ceasefire deal, key mediators suggested the opposite, and ultimately Hamas agreed to President Trump's 20-point peace framework, including releasing hostages and ending the war. The CIA's contrary assessments created initial uncertainty, but Kushner and Witkoff remained optimistic and successfully pushed forward with negotiations. Meanwhile, reports surfaced that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu used a mistaken claim blaming Hamas for a Rafah blast to justify halting aid and resuming bombings, although U.S. officials quickly determined the explosion was caused by an Israeli tank hitting unexploded ordnance. Kushner and Witkoff also privately urged Netanyahu not to take actions that could jeopardize the ceasefire's first phase, emphasizing Washington's goal to advance to the second phase involving Gaza's demilitarization and reconstruction. Meetings with Israeli military leaders underscored cooperation on implementing the next stages of Trump's ceasefire plan, reflecting ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region. These developments highlight the complex interplay of intelligence, diplomacy, and military actions shaping the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas under President Trump's administration.