US envoy Witkoff to visit Israel for talks on Iran and Gaza, reports say

US Special Envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, is expected to arrive in Israel in the coming days for critical talks on Iran and the Gaza ceasefire, according to Israeli media reports. Public broadcaster KAN and Army Radio stated that Witkoff plans to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Israel Katz, and senior military officials, though neither government has officially confirmed the visit.

Israeli Concerns and Conditions for a Deal

The anticipated diplomatic mission occurs as Israel expresses concern over potential US diplomatic outreach to Iran. Israeli analysts suggest Washington may be leaning towards a political solution, whereas Tel Aviv favors a harder line. Reports indicate Israel has outlined three conditions for any acceptable US-Iran agreement: no nuclear weapons, no advanced missile program, and an end to Iranian support for regional proxies like Hezbollah and the Houthis. Israeli officials have reportedly warned Washington against Iranian "deception."

Regional Context of De-escalation Efforts

Envoy Witkoff's visit unfolds against a backdrop of a significant US military buildup in the Middle East and President Donald Trump's threats of action against Iran. Concurrently, a separate diplomatic track led by regional powers, including Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt, is actively pushing for negotiations between Washington and Tehran to prevent a wider war. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently expressed optimism that a nuclear deal is achievable through revived talks.

Broader Implications for Middle East Stability

The discussions in Tel Aviv will also address the second phase of the US-backed Gaza peace plan. The situation remains volatile, with the Gaza war having caused massive casualties since October 2023. For active diplomatic players like Türkiye, which advocates for a ceasefire and a two-state solution, high-level US engagement is crucial, but must be balanced with regional consensus to ensure lasting stability.