On Friday, August 1, 2025, U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee will travel to the Gaza Strip to address the escalating humanitarian crisis, where malnutrition and starvation are claiming lives. The White House announced this high-stakes trip as global pressure mounts on Israel to allow more aid into the region. The visit aims to inspect aid distribution sites, meet with local Gazans, and develop a plan to deliver more food and resources to those in need.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the urgency of the mission during a Thursday briefing. “Special Envoy Witkoff and Ambassador Huckabee will be traveling into Gaza to inspect the current distribution sites and secure a plan to deliver more food,” she said. The officials will brief President Donald Trump immediately after their visit to finalize a strategy for increasing aid, with details to be shared once approved.
The trip comes at a critical time. The Palestinian Health Ministry reports that over 120 people have died from malnutrition in Gaza since the war began, and the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification warns that famine is unfolding. President Trump has voiced concern, stating, “We have to get the kids fed,” and highlighting “real starvation” in the region. Vice President JD Vance echoed this, noting the administration’s deep worry about Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.
Witkoff’s visit follows a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Thursday, where they discussed increasing aid flow and resolving the conflict. Israel recently announced a “tactical pause” in military operations to allow more humanitarian aid, a move Netanyahu said would involve cooperation with the U.S. and international agencies. Trump also pledged U.S. support to fund and establish food centers in Gaza, with plans for accessible distribution sites “without fences” to ensure aid reaches civilians.
However, challenges remain. The U.S. and Israel have backed the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) to manage aid distribution, despite controversy. Over 160 charities and NGOs have criticized GHF, alleging that its sites have been linked to violence, with over 500 Palestinians reportedly killed while seeking aid. Critics argue GHF’s operations violate international humanitarian law, but the Trump administration continues to support the group, pledging $30 million to its efforts. Currently, GHF operates just four distribution sites, and there are no clear plans for expansion.
The international community is also responding. The United Kingdom, France, and Canada plan to recognize a Palestinian state this fall unless Israel takes significant steps to address Gaza’s crisis. Trump has opposed this move, with Leavitt stating that he believes it “rewards Hamas,” which he sees as the main obstacle to a ceasefire and hostage release.
Witkoff’s trip marks his second visit to Gaza this year, following a January tour during a temporary ceasefire. As global attention focuses on Gaza’s hunger crisis, this mission underscores the U.S.’s commitment to finding solutions, even as diplomatic tensions and logistical challenges persist. The outcome of Witkoff and Huckabee’s visit could shape the next steps in alleviating suffering in Gaza and advancing peace efforts in the region.