U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff plans Gaza visit amid ceasefire fragility 

President-elect Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is reportedly considering a visit to the Gaza Strip as part of efforts to stabilize a fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, a senior transition official confirmed.

The ceasefire, set to begin on Sunday, aims to release hostages held by Hamas and detainees in Israeli custody. However, Witkoff, signaling the gravity of the situation, intends to maintain a near-constant presence in the region. This approach is designed to address potential disruptions swiftly and prevent the agreement from unraveling.

“You need to be right there, ready to handle any issues before they escalate,” the official explained, emphasizing the delicate nature of the truce.

Witkoff’s broader mission includes fostering long-term stability for both Israelis and the displaced Palestinian population, which the official described as dependent on implementing a three-phase plan. This roadmap includes the current exchange of hostages, a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces, and negotiations aimed at rebuilding Gaza and achieving lasting peace.

During Hamas’s October 7, 2023, terrorist attack, which left 1,200 Israelis dead and around 250 people taken hostage, the scale of devastation reshaped regional dynamics. A visit to Gaza, according to the official, would allow Witkoff to better understand the on-the-ground realities. “You’ve got to see it firsthand,” the official added.

Witkoff’s focus is not only on immediate crisis management but also on addressing the root causes of instability. “If we don’t improve conditions for Gazans and offer them hope, rebellion is inevitable,” the official warned, underscoring the importance of long-term investment in Gaza’s recovery.

* NBC News contributed to this article.