US President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is going to Israel as concern grows over the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. According to US officials who spoke to The New York Times, this is Witkoff’s first known visit to Israel since May. At that time, he helped negotiate the release of the last American-Israeli hostage held by Hamas.

Visit comes during worsening Gaza crisis

This time, Witkoff’s trip comes at a dark moment. Thousands in Gaza are now starving. The World Food Program reports that over one in three Palestinians go without food for days at a time.

Gaza’s health ministry says dozens, including children, have recently died of hunger. Witkoff’s visit follows Trump’s public comments last week, where he acknowledged the famine-like conditions in Gaza. His statement sharply contrasted with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who denies any starvation. “That’s real starvation stuff, I see it, and you can’t fake that,” Trump said on Monday.

Efforts for ceasefire stall

Witkoff has led Trump’s efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. A deal would also aim to free the remaining hostages held in Gaza. However, talks broke down last week.

As the Gaza situation worsens, international criticism of Israel has increased. Last week, France formally recognized the state of Palestine. The United Kingdom also signaled conditional support for recognition.

In addition, nearly 30 countries—including some of Israel’s key allies—urged for an immediate end to the war. So far, over 60,000 people have died in Gaza since Israel began its campaign against Hamas. This offensive began after Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.