The White House announced Wednesday that U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Wittkopf will continue pressing for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal during his European diplomatic tour. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated at a briefing: "Special Envoy Wittkopf will travel to Europe to meet with key Middle Eastern leaders regarding the current ceasefire proposal to end the Gaza conflict and secure hostage releases."

Jean-Pierre emphasized Wittkopf would conduct "highly sensitive negotiations" to achieve these objectives, adding: "We want the ceasefire implemented as soon as possible and these hostages released immediately."

U.S. media reports indicate Wittkopf will depart for Rome later Wednesday, arriving Thursday for meetings with Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and a senior Qatari envoy.

The announcement follows Tuesday's extraordinary session of the Arab League Council, where delegates urged immediate international action to:

1. Halt Israel's military offensive in Gaza

2. Recognize the humanitarian catastrophe and famine conditions

3. Lift the blockade on Gaza

4. Guarantee unimpeded humanitarian, relief, and medical aid access