Witkoff warns of ceasefire fragility at Manhattan synagogue dedication

Trump envoy Witkoff warns of Gaza deal's fragility at Manhattan synagogue, drawing ovations alongside Herzog ahead of Israel visit.

 Rally for Republican presidential nominee and former U.S. President Donald Trump, in New York (photo credit: ANDREW KELLY / REUTERS)
Rally for Republican presidential nominee and former U.S. President Donald Trump, in New York
(photo credit: ANDREW KELLY / REUTERS)

NEW YORK – United States Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff warned of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire’s fragility at the grand opening of The Altneu Synagogue in Manhattan, attended by congregants, US Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA), and President Isaac Herzog.

Witkoff, who’s traveling to Israel on Wednesday after attending the 8th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, cautioned about a “flare up” if the deal is not implemented correctly.

“The execution of the agreement was important; it was the first step,” Witkoff told the 600 congregants spread through multiple rooms of the synagogue.

“But without the implementation [done correctly], we’re not going to get it right. We’re going to have a flare-up, and that’s not a good thing,” he added.

The envoy said the deal will “hopefully get to phase two” and all living hostages will be released, as well as the bodies of deceased hostages.

 American business person Steve Witkoff makes remarks next to US President-elect Donald Trump, at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, U.S. January 7, 2025.  (credit: REUTERS/CARLOS BARRIA)Enlrage image
American business person Steve Witkoff makes remarks next to US President-elect Donald Trump, at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, U.S. January 7, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/CARLOS BARRIA)

Witkoff is happy to have this 'really important job'

He ended his remarks saying it’s a blessing to have been appointed by US President Donald Trump to “do this really important job.”

Herzog praised Witkoff for “saving seven souls” who have been released from Gaza so far and thanked Trump for his commitment to Israel.

Herzog wished the envoy “the best of luck in your endeavor trying to bring peace to our region.”