New Abraham Accords expansion announcements expected ‘very soon', says Witkoff
Steve Witkoff, senior advisor to US President Donald Trump and the administration's envoy to the Middle East, announced that new developments related to the Abraham Accords are imminent.
Speaking at the 'Israeli' Embassy in Washington, D.C., on Monday during a reception marking 'Israel's' 77th Independence Day, Witkoff said, 'Very soon, we expect to hear many announcements related to the expansion of the Abraham Accords.'
His remarks come ahead of Trump's upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar scheduled for next week—countries seen as central to ongoing efforts to widen regional normalization with 'Israel'.
During his speech, Witkoff also addressed the Iran nuclear issue, declaring firmly, 'Iran will not have a nuclear weapon.' Speaking to reporters at the event, he confirmed that talks between the US and Iran had made some progress. 'I hope we're moving in the right direction,' he said. 'The President has stated his desire to resolve this issue diplomatically if possible, and we are working toward an agreement. Efforts are now underway to coordinate a fourth round of talks.'
On the matter of 'Israeli' captives still held in Gaza, Witkoff expressed cautious optimism, noting that the US remains actively engaged in negotiation efforts. 'Our celebration is bittersweet because 59 hostages are still being held by Hamas,' he said. 'I'm in close contact with mediators in Egypt and Qatar, as well as with Israel—almost daily.'
Recalling a moment during the release of female 'Israeli' soldiers, Witkoff shared a personal memory: 'I sang 'Am Yisrael Chai' with them. I thought that was the most emotional moment of my life. On behalf of President Trump, I tell you—we are working and hoping that next Independence Day will not just be a wish for joy but a joyful reality.'
He concluded by calling for national unity in 'Israel', emphasizing it as the foundation of the country's strength. 'I call on Israelis to choose unity over division, vision over discord. When that becomes the choice, Israel's future will be bright,' Witkoff said.
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