US Envoy Plans Gaza Ceasefire Deal Extension Talks

US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff is traveling to the region this week to negotiate an extension of the Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which is under strain as it approaches the end of its first phase. This phase included the exchange of 33 Israeli hostages for nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees, but Israel's recent delay in releasing 602 Palestinian prisoners has raised tensions. Witkoff expressed optimism about progressing to the next phase, which aims for a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the release of more hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has emphasized that any future governance of Gaza must exclude Hamas, which he considers a red line. The negotiations face uncertainty, especially as recent developments indicate a potential resumption of military operations if an agreement is not reached. The situation remains complex, with ongoing humanitarian crises and significant casualties impacting the negotiations.