Speaking at the Altneu synagogue in Manhattan, Witkoff says there are risks of a ‘flare-up’ if the deal is not implemented correctly

As both United States President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump try to take credit for Israel and Hamas agreeing to a ceasefire deal in Gaza, a relatively unknown political newcomer in Trump’s incoming team has emerged as a key figure in sealing the deal.

U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff met in Israel with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday, aiming to reinforce Israel’s fragile ceasefire with Hamas militants in Gaza after more than 15 months of warfare.