US envoy Witkoff hints at upcoming Abraham Accords expansion and progress in hostage negotiations

In a high-profile speech on May 6, 2025, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff made waves with bold statements about the future of US diplomacy in the Middle East, particularly regarding the Abraham Accords. Speaking at the Israeli Embassy’s reception for Israel’s 77th Independence Day in Washington, DC, Witkoff revealed that “very soon,” a series of announcements would be made regarding the expansion of the historic accords. This comes ahead of President Donald Trump’s highly anticipated visit to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar next week, which is expected to boost diplomatic momentum in the region.

Witkoff’s remarks signal an optimistic shift in US policy toward strengthening regional partnerships and addressing ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The Abraham Accords, which have already facilitated normalisation agreements between Israel and several Arab nations, may soon see further expansion, potentially altering the geopolitical landscape.

In addition to the progress on the Accords, Witkoff discussed ongoing efforts to resolve hostage situations, particularly the release of Americans being held in the region. He revealed that there has been “almost daily” contact with mediators and that steps are being taken to move towards a solution, providing hope that these cases may soon come to a conclusion. His statement came as Israel, alongside the US, struck military targets in Yemen in response to Houthi threats, demonstrating the heightened military tension in the region.

Meanwhile, Witkoff reaffirmed US policy on Iran, stating unequivocally, “Iran will not have a nuclear weapon.” This comment was made during a brief conversation with reporters, during which he also acknowledged that there had been some progress in nuclear talks between the US and Iran. Efforts are currently underway to coordinate a fourth round of talks, and Witkoff expressed cautious optimism about moving in the right direction.

In his speech, Witkoff made clear that the US remains committed to resolving conflicts diplomatically where possible. His reference to nuclear talks underlined the importance of diplomacy, though he did not shy away from the reality of military action, citing the joint strikes in Yemen.

Israel, for its part, continues to respond to regional security threats with direct military action. On May 5, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) carried out a counterstrike on targets in Yemen, part of a broader campaign against Houthi forces. The attack was part of a series of escalating military responses in the region, including IDF strikes in Lebanon and Syria, as tensions between Israel and Iran, as well as their respective proxies, show no signs of abating.

With Witkoff’s statements on the Abraham Accords, nuclear talks, and regional hostilities, it is clear that the US is seeking to take a proactive stance in the Middle East. As Trump’s visit looms, the coming weeks could see significant diplomatic shifts. The fate of hostages, the expansion of the Abraham Accords, and the nuclear ambitions of Iran all remain at the centre of Washington’s strategy as it works to reshape the region’s political landscape.