"'They Need Us Now': Russia Exposes Israel's Desperate Hamas Secret

As Trump advisor Steve Witkoff landed in Moscow Tuesday, a diplomatic dispute revealed complex tensions over Gaza hostage negotiations.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova touted Russia's growing influence, highlighting previous successes in freeing Russian citizens. Her ministry noted three key releases during the 2023 humanitarian pause: Elena Trufanov, Irina Tati, and Roni Krivoi, achieved "without requiring anything in return from Israel."

Current negotiations focus on two remaining Russian citizens: Alexander (Sasha) Trufanov and Donbas native Maxim Herkin. These talks follow last week's high-level meeting between Hamas official Mousa Abu Marzouk and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov in Moscow.

"Our concrete results prompted Israel to reconsider their negative stance toward our Hamas contacts," Zakharova declared. "Their critical tone has shifted to pragmatic interest in Russia's mediation capabilities."

Israeli Ambassador Simona Halperin challenged this characterization, particularly regarding Trufanov's inclusion in the deal's first phase. "I'm confident Russia has influence," she told TASS news agency, "but when their efforts actually bear fruit, I'll be first to acknowledge their diplomatic contribution."

The exchange highlights Russia's complex regional strategy:

- Maintaining open channels with Hamas while preserving Israeli relations

- Leveraging hostage negotiations for diplomatic influence

- Positioning itself as a key mediator in the broader conflict

This diplomatic maneuvering comes as negotiations continue for the release of remaining hostages, with Russia pledging to work "energetically" toward freeing all captives.