Witkoff to meet Qatari officials at World Cup final, expresses optimism on Gaza talks
Speaking to reporters in Teterboro, New Jersey, Witkoff said he plans to meet with senior Qatari officials on the sidelines of the FIFA Club World Cup final, scheduled to take place later Sunday. His remarks were reported by Reuters.
"I'm optimistic about where the discussions are heading," Witkoff said, without elaborating on details of the mediation efforts. The envoy's involvement comes as part of intensified US efforts to bring an end to the conflict amid rising international pressure.
Earlier Sunday, the Palestinian groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad reiterated that any ceasefire agreement must result in a full 'Israeli' withdrawal from Gaza, the reopening of border crossings, and the launch of reconstruction efforts in the war-torn enclave.
In a joint statement, Hamas said a delegation led by Mohammad Darwish, head of the group's leadership council, met with Islamic Jihad Secretary-General Ziyad al-Nakhalah. The two sides discussed the latest Israeli responses to ceasefire proposals put forward by international mediators, and how best to respond to them.
Both groups have insisted that an agreement must go beyond a temporary truce and address the broader political and humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
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