United States Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff is set to arrive in Cairo on Sunday with Israeli and Arab negotiators for talks on a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza, Israeli media reported on Saturday. Witkoff will be joined by the president’s son-in-law and former advisor, Jared Kushner, for the negotiations. Hamas representatives were also expected to reach the Egyptian capital late Saturday, according to Saudi outlet Al Arabiya.
Abbas signals readiness for Gaza talks with Trump
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Saturday welcomed United States President Donald Trump’s plan to end the war in Gaza and begin detailed negotiations. In a statement shared by Wafa news agency, Abbas said the remarks showed readiness to release hostages and called for “the highest level of national responsibility” during this stage. He thanked Trump for his efforts and praised Arab and Islamic countries, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Indonesia and Pakistan, for supporting peace efforts. Abbas affirmed Palestine’s willingness to work with Trump, the International Peace Conference in New York and members of the United Nations to secure a lasting settlement. His comments came after Washington announced Hamas is ready to begin negotiations.