US envoy Witkoff holds Israel talks ahead of scheduled Iran negotiations

2026-02-03 - 13:25

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has landed in Israel for a series of high-level meetings, according to Israeli media reports. The diplomatic visit is set to include talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday afternoon, aligning with a period of intensified regional diplomacy. Agenda: Iran and Gaza Ceasefire The discussions between Witkoff and Israeli leaders are expected to center on two primary issues: the ongoing concerns regarding Iran's nuclear program and the implementation of the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan. These consultations are strategically timed ahead of separate, direct talks between the United States and Iran. Coordinating Ahead of Istanbul Meeting The envoy's stop in Tel Aviv comes just days before a planned meeting between US and Iranian officials. Those negotiations are reportedly scheduled for Friday in Istanbul, Türkiye, a location that has emerged as a neutral venue for sensitive diplomatic engagements. The Israel visit allows the US to coordinate closely with a key regional ally prior to engaging directly with Tehran. The Broader Diplomatic Context Witkoff's mission is part of a broader US diplomatic effort to address multiple intertwined crises in the Middle East. Balancing the goals of managing Iran's regional influence and nuclear ambitions while solidifying a fragile ceasefire in Gaza represents a complex challenge, requiring careful consultation with partners like Israel.