The U.S. Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, made provocative statements warning of the potential downfall of the Egyptian regime and disturbances in Saudi Arabia as a result of the ongoing war in Gaza. He expressed optimism about Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
In an interview with journalist Tucker Carlson, Witkoff stated that unrest could occur in Saudi Arabia for Mohammed bin Salman and in Egypt for President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. He explained that people in these countries view their inaction on Gaza as a point of ignition and anger.
Witkoff added: “Sisi has a 45% unemployment rate, and Egypt is a heavily indebted country with a suffocating crisis. It needs help, and what’s happening in Gaza could affect it, taking us backward. Therefore, we must solve the Gaza issue.”
Regarding Saudi Arabia, he said: “They have a huge young population, and everyone is watching how they will act regarding Gaza. He is a great leader, but the situation is not easy, so a solution in Gaza is necessary to reach normalization. If normalization happens, everything will be fine.”
What Did He Say About Al-Sharaa?
Witkoff expressed his belief that Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa had changed from who he once was. He added: “People change. You are a completely different person at 55 compared to when you were 35. Personally, I know that at 68, I am not the person I was thirty years ago. Perhaps al-Sharaa (the Syrian President) is a different person now; they expelled Iran from there.”
Witkoff noted that normalizing relations between Lebanon and “Israel” and then between Syria and “Israel” could be part of a larger process for peace in the region.
What Did He Say About Hamas and Ceasefire in Gaza?
Witkoff stated that Hamas is an idea that cannot be eradicated, but it cannot be part of the future governance of Gaza.
He emphasized that he does not believe it is possible to completely eliminate Hamas, as it is an ideological idea, not just a political organization.
Speaking on his view of Hamas, Witkoff said: “I don’t think they are ideologically closed. When you understand they want life, that’s when you can talk to them more effectively.”
He added: “At the beginning of this conflict, we heard that Hamas was closed off and willing to die. I thought they were tying suicide belts on children, but personally, I believed they were not. When you believe they want life and alternatives, you can speak with them.”
Witkoff expressed hope for a ceasefire in Gaza soon, noting that Doha is working towards effective mediation for peace.
He stressed the need to find a solution that satisfies all parties to avoid the repetition of events like October 7, stating that negotiations with Hamas would not have occurred without trust in Qatar’s mediation.
Regarding Qatar, Witkoff mentioned that Qatar’s previously strict Islamic visions have changed, and there is no doubt that Qatar is now an ally of the United States.
He also pointed to the need for a real security force in Gaza to ensure that “Israel” does not face long-term issues.
On the political situation, Witkoff called for real elections in Gaza, revealing previous warnings he issued during the Arab summit that the ongoing situation without a solution could lead to military action. He noted that Washington had proposed a plan involving the disarmament of Hamas and a permanent peace agreement.
He claimed that Hamas had not been responsive, and their responses were unrealistic.
Witkoff said that the return of Israelis to fight in some areas was unfortunate but in some areas necessary.
How Does Witkoff View Netanyahu?
Regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Witkoff said: “He feels he is doing the right thing, but he opposes the public opinion that wants ‘hostages returned’.”
He pointed out that the reputation Netanyahu has is one of being more interested in fighting than in “the hostages.”
On the regional front, Witkoff warned that achievements in Lebanon and other areas could be threatened if the Gaza crisis is not resolved, adding that Arab street anger over the deaths of children could be a decisive factor leading to unrest.
Lebanon’s Normalization
Witkoff confirmed that he believes Lebanon could normalize relations with “Israel” through a peace treaty, and this is also likely with Syria, according to his statement. He believes the objective in that process starts with how to handle Iran.
He added that Jordan’s King Abdullah II has played a significant role in maintaining stability in his country, but things are more difficult in Egypt, warning that disturbances in Egypt could push matters backward.
He also mentioned that Saudi Arabia will propose a solution regarding Gaza.
Witkoff confirmed that his vision of the two-state solution involves improving the living conditions of Palestinians and mentioned that developmental plans under consideration might or might not include this concept.
