Washington has reportedly told regional mediators it does not intend to pressure Israel into halting its military campaign in Gaza, despite growing international concern over the rising civilian death toll. According to The Times of Israel, US envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff informed Qatari and Egyptian officials of the decision during recent discussions, citing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s firm opposition to ending the conflict.
The report cites two Arab officials who said both Qatar and Egypt had hoped the United States would use its influence over Israel to bring the war to an end, particularly after Hamas released dual American-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander — a move that had raised hopes for de-escalation.
US President Donald Trump, who is currently on a tour of the Gulf, also indicated a desire to see the fighting stop. Speaking in Abu Dhabi, he remarked: “We’re looking at Gaza. And we’re going to get that taken care of. A lot of people are starving.” However, he stopped short of specifying any concrete action Washington might take.
Meanwhile, Israel has escalated its bombardment in Gaza during Trump’s visit, with more than 100 Palestinians reportedly killed each day. Humanitarian agencies continue to sound the alarm over conditions in the besieged enclave, where food, water, and medical aid remain in critically short supply.
Despite growing calls from the international community for a ceasefire, the Trump administration — like its predecessors — appears unwilling to challenge Netanyahu’s hardline stance. Critics argue this reluctance signals tacit approval of Israel’s actions and undermines the US’s credibility as a mediator in the region.