Witkoff and Kushner Express Betrayal Over Israel’s Qatar Strikes

Negotiations between the United States and Hamas faced significant disruption following Israeli airstrikes in Doha, Qatar, on September 9, 2023. According to President Donald Trump’s envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, the strikes targeted senior Hamas leaders and left them feeling “betrayed” during a critical period of diplomacy.

Witkoff shared his sentiments during an interview with CBS News’ “60 Minutes,” which is set to air on Sunday. He stated, “I think both Jared and I felt, I just feel we felt a little bit betrayed.” Kushner added that the Israeli actions appeared to be “a little bit out of control” and not in the long-term interests of the parties involved.

The Israeli airstrikes, carried out by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet), aimed at key figures within Hamas who have been linked to the group’s operations against Israel. An IDF statement indicated that those targeted were instrumental in directing the organization’s activities and were responsible for the October 7, 2023, massacre.

Witkoff explained that the attack had a “metastasizing effect,” complicating negotiations with Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, all of which were considered crucial to the dialogue. He noted that they “had lost the confidence of the Qataris,” making it challenging to engage with Hamas effectively.

The day following the airstrikes, Witkoff learned of the events that unfolded. He and Kushner soon met with Khalil al-Hayya, a Hamas official who survived the strikes, in Egypt. This meeting was part of ongoing efforts to solidify a ceasefire deal that took effect on October 10, 2023.

According to reports, all 20 living hostages held in Gaza were returned to Israel as part of this agreement. However, 18 bodies of individuals who perished during the conflict have not yet been repatriated.

The IDF maintained that precautions were taken to minimize civilian casualties during the operation, including the use of precision munitions. The military confirmed its ongoing commitment to combating Hamas, stating that efforts would continue with determination.

As tensions remain high in the region, the implications of these airstrikes and the subsequent diplomatic fallout highlight the complexities of the Israel-Hamas conflict and the challenges faced by international mediators.