ALWAGHT- A senior Hamas official stated that US special envoy Witkoff personally pledged that the United States would pressure Israel to lift the Gaza blockade and allow humanitarian aid within two days of the release of American-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander.
Basem Naim, a senior Hamas official, revealed that US special envoy Witkoff personally promised a deal: if Hamas released American-Israeli captive Edan Alexander, then former President Trump would publicly call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, thank Hamas for its gesture, and pressure Israel to open Gaza’s borders for humanitarian aid. However, Naim accused the US and Israel of ignoring the agreement and breaking the deal.
Despite recent talks in Doha involving US envoys and Israeli negotiators, Naim dismissed any progress, stating the discussions reverted to Israel’s initial proposals, ignoring the release of Alexander and other recent developments. Hamas emphasized that Alexander’s release was part of efforts by mediators to achieve a ceasefire and facilitate aid deliveries to Gaza amid ongoing conflict and blockade.
Naim criticized Trump’s mixed messaging—acknowledging Gaza’s humanitarian crisis but also suggesting the US might take control of Gaza as a “freedom zone.” He stressed that without strong US pressure on Israel’s government, particularly Prime Minister Netanyahu, no real progress or enforcement of agreements can be expected, as Israel continues to act with impunity.
