Axios: US envoy Witkoff not to leave Egypt until Israel, Hamas agree on hostages, ceasefire

US Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, and President Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, will remain in Egypt until an agreement is reached at the ongoing indirect talks between Israel and the Palestinian movement Hamas on the release of hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza.

According to Axios, which cited a senior White House official, Witkoff and Kushner arrived in Egypt early on October 8. Before their departure, they met with President Trump and briefed him on the progress of the talks that began on October 6.

Sources speaking to Axios expressed cautious optimism that a deal could be reached within the week but emphasised that both American representatives are prepared to stay in Egypt for as long as necessary.

U.S. officials reportedly believe that prior to the arrival of Witkoff and Kushner, the negotiations had been largely “technical” in nature.

By Khagan Isayev