The United States is sending a special envoy to the Middle East to push forward talks on a Gaza aid corridor, the State Department confirmed on Tuesday.
Steve Witkoff, a top negotiator under President Donald Trump, will meet regional officials to discuss a ceasefire and establish a secure route for humanitarian aid to reach civilians in Gaza. His trip comes as growing numbers of Palestinians face starvation due to ongoing conflict and restricted access to essential supplies.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce told reporters that Witkoff carries “a strong hope” of securing a ceasefire and an aid corridor. She said both sides have shown signs of agreement, but did not provide further details about his schedule or specific meeting locations.
The situation in Gaza has become critical, with international agencies reporting rising hunger-related deaths. According to the United Nations, Israeli forces have killed over 1,000 Palestinians, many of them while they were trying to access food near aid distribution points.
Bruce did not clarify how this new diplomatic effort connects to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a US- and Israel-backed initiative that has sparked global criticism. The GHF has been linked to several violent incidents involving Israeli troops and aid seekers. Since May, aid operations under GHF have witnessed chaotic scenes, with many Palestinians shot while trying to obtain food.
The latest move by Washington suggests a renewed effort to ease the humanitarian crisis. The goal is to provide safe and organized delivery of aid and reduce the risk of further bloodshed.
Witkoff’s trip reflects growing global concern over the worsening situation. As starvation spreads and death tolls rise, pressure is building on all sides to allow humanitarian relief into Gaza without violence or delays.
For more on the rising tensions and recent casualties, read this detailed report.
