WANA (May 12) – Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has responded to reports about attempts by the Israeli regime to disrupt Washington’s efforts to broker a deal with Hamas, calling them just “a drop in the ocean.”

 

On Monday, Araghchi reposted a recent report by The Times of Israel on his X account, which revealed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer have been actively working to undermine U.S.-led negotiations aimed at reaching a deal with Hamas and securing the release of remaining hostages in Gaza.

 

The Israeli daily reported in March that figures close to Netanyahu had launched an aggressive campaign to block any American success in securing the hostages’ release, fearing it might clearly reveal who is genuinely pursuing a deal — and who is intent on prolonging the war.

 

In his post, Araghchi wrote: “This is just the tip of the iceberg.”

 

Meanwhile, Steve Wietkoff, U.S. President Biden’s special envoy to West Asia, on Sunday told families of Israeli hostages held by Hamas that Israel is continuing the war “without any pathway forward.”

 

During an unprecedented visit to the occupied territories, Wietkoff strongly criticized the Israeli government in a meeting with hostage families, stating: “There is a real opportunity right now. We hope Israel and the mediators will seize it. We are increasing pressure on all the mediators and will spare no effort to bring the hostages home.”

 

He emphasized: “We want the hostages back. But Israel is unwilling to end the war. Despite no progress and the urgent need for a deal, Israel keeps fighting.”

 

These remarks came shortly after Netanyahu declared on Sunday night: “We will not seek permission from anyone for our war plans in Gaza.”

 

Nevertheless, Wietkoff insisted in his remarks that a window of opportunity for a ceasefire in Gaza still exists.