The United States is set to brief the United Nations Security Council on Thursday regarding the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and broader regional developments, according to a senior U.S. administration official.
Steve Witkoff, President Biden’s envoy to the Middle East, will lead the briefing at the U.S. mission to the UN. All 15 Security Council member states are expected to attend. The session will focus on U.S. policy toward the conflict in Gaza, the status of nuclear negotiations with Iran, and other pressing regional concerns.
Witkoff’s presentation is expected to highlight Washington’s latest diplomatic efforts, including a new humanitarian aid mechanism designed in coordination with Israel. The mechanism, according to U.S. officials, aims to streamline the delivery of food, medical supplies, and other essentials to civilians in the besieged Gaza Strip.
The move follows international criticism of Israel’s recent plan to manage aid distribution in Gaza through private contractors. That approach had raised alarms among European leaders and humanitarian organizations, particularly after a two-month blockade that severely limited the entry of assistance into the territory.
“The humanitarian situation in Gaza is a key concern,” said the U.S. official, speaking to reporters under the condition of anonymity. “This briefing is part of our commitment to transparency with our partners at the UN and to address the urgent needs on the ground.”
Beyond Gaza, Witkoff will also update the Council on U.S. engagement with Iran, particularly surrounding stalled nuclear negotiations. While talks have been ongoing, progress remains slow, and tensions in the region have continued to rise.
The United States has sought to balance its strategic alliance with Israel while responding to mounting global concern over the humanitarian impact of the war in Gaza, now entering its seventh month. Over 30,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed since hostilities began, with UN agencies warning of famine and collapse of essential services in parts of the Strip.
Witkoff’s appearance at the UN marks a rare direct briefing by a presidential envoy and signals Washington’s intention to maintain an active diplomatic role in Middle East affairs, even as it faces criticism over its handling of the conflict.
Diplomats from several Security Council members are expected to press Witkoff on accountability measures, humanitarian access, and the long-term prospects for peace in the region.
