Donald Trump’s Middle East special envoy Steve Witkoff paid tribute to the UK’s role in Gaza peace summit – just hours after a US ambassador mocked a Cabinet minister for making similar comments
A top US official has praised the “vital role” of the UK and Keir Starmer’s key aide in efforts to reach today’s Gaza peace summit.
Donald Trump’s Middle East special envoy, Steve Witkoff, paid tribute to the “incredible input” of the Prime Minister’s adviser, Jonathan Powell. Mr Witkoff’s comments appear to contradict those of the American ambassador to Israel, who publicly mocked a UK minister as “delusional” for making a similar claim.
Posting on X today, Mr Witkoff said: “I would like to acknowledge the vital role of the United Kingdom in assisting and coordinating efforts that have led us to this historic day in Israel. In particular, I want to recognize the incredible input and tireless efforts of National Security Advisor Jonathan Powell.”
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It came after Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson told Sky News on Sunday morning the UK had played a “key role behind the scenes in shaping this”. She added: “These are complex matters of diplomacy that we are involved in. But we do welcome and recognise the critical role the American government played in getting us to this point.”
But the US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, hit back on social media, mocking the Cabinet minister. He said: “I assure you she’s delusional. She can thank [Donald Trump] to set the record straight.”
Later today Mr Starmer is expected to describe the Gaza peace summit being held in Egypt today as a “crucial phase” in ending two years of conflict and bloodshed. He jetted to Sharm El-Sheikh last night to attend the signing ceremony of the peace plan alongside US President Donald Trump.
They are expected to be joined by Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, UN Secretary General António Guterres and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Mr Starmer is expected to say: “We stand determined to seize this opportunity to deliver a lasting peace, and a stable, secure future for the whole region. Today is the first, crucial phase of ending this war and now we must deliver the second phase, in full.
“The UK will support the next stage of talks to ensure the full implementation of the peace plan, so that people on both sides can rebuild their lives in safety and security.”
During the summit Mr Starmer is expected to announce £20million of UK aid – part of a broader £116 million commitment – will be made available to Gaza. This is to help ensure water, sanitation and hygiene services reach tens of thousands of civilians across war-torn territory.
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