Summary
President Donald Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, visited a military base in Gaza amid a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The visit is part of U.S. efforts to stabilize Gaza after a two-year conflict caused significant destruction and displaced millions. The ceasefire agreement requires Hamas to release hostages, and Israel to free prisoners, while the U.S. has sent troops to support this process.
Key Facts
- President Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, visited an Israel Defense Forces base in northern Gaza.
- Admiral Brad Cooper, head of U.S. Central Command, accompanied Witkoff to plan support for Gaza's stabilization.
- The U.S. has sent about 200 troops to Israel to help with hostage retrieval and ceasefire monitoring.
- Thousands of Palestinians are returning home due to the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
- The conflict began in 2023 with Hamas' attack on Israel, leading to high casualties and infrastructure damage.
- Israel has committed to withdrawing military presence from some urban areas as part of the ceasefire.
- Hamas is required to release remaining hostages, while Israel will free a number of Palestinian prisoners.
- U.S. efforts include establishing a coordination center to manage aid and logistics in Gaza.