‘Let me finish my thought!’ Trump’s envoy shouted down by Israelis after hailing Netanyahu

Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, was shouted down in Israel Saturday after hailing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as being instrumental in the Gaza peace plan that was agreed to, in part, by both Israel and Hamas.

“This moment was made through the tireless dedication of leaders who would not rest until the world saw what could be achieved, one of them standing right here with me, Jared Kushner,” Witkoff said to a crowd of thousands in Tel Aviv, Israel.

Witkoff then proceeded to mention Netanyahu’s name in his round of thanks only to be met with loud boos and jeers from the crowd.

“Okay, okay,” Witkoff said, trying to thank Netanyahu again before being interrupted by a second round of jeers from the crowd.

“I, I, okay, let me just finish my thought. I was, I was in the trenches... guys, let me just finish my thought,” Witkoff said, as he struggled to tamper down the jeers from the crowd. “I was in the trenches with the prime minister – believe me, he was a very important part here.”

Boos continued to ring out from the audience at every mention of Netanyahu, whose popularity among Israelis has plummeted since Hamas’ attack in 2023, with many Israeli critics accusing Netanyahu of deliberately undermining a hostage deal.

“The prime minister and his staff, Ron Dermer included, have both, have both…” Witkoff said, before again being interrupted by thunderous boos and jeers.

“Okay – have both sacrificed so much for this country and devoted their lives to the service of Israel. Their dedication to the history and destiny of this nation stands out tonight. They've given everything – their time, their energy and their hearts – to building a safer, stronger future for the Jewish people. Their commitment to this country has never wavered and it never will.”

Witkoff then invoked Trump’s name, which immediately sparked unanimous cheers among the crowd of thousands, who began to break out in chants, shouting “thank you, Trump!”