US Launches Phase Two of Gaza Peace Initiative

Thu Jan 15 2026 00:33:04 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The United States has officially announced the commencement of phase two of the Gaza peace plan, aiming for reconstruction and demilitarization following a prolonged conflict.

US envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that phase two of the Gaza peace plan has begun, which will establish a technocratic government in Gaza, focus on reconstruction efforts, and enforce the disarmament of groups including Hamas. Regional mediators have welcomed the initiative, which seeks to foster stability and improve humanitarian conditions in the region. Trump's leadership is noted as key in creating an opportunity for peace in this transitional phase.

US Launches Phase Two of Gaza Peace Initiative

57 minutes ago

US envoy Steve Witkoff has announced the start of phase two of President Donald Trump's plan to end the war in Gaza, with a technocratic Palestinian government established in the territory. This phase aims to reconstruct Gaza and fully demilitarize the region, mandating the disarmament of Hamas and other Palestinian groups. Witkoff emphasized, The US expects Hamas to comply fully with its obligations, which include returning the body of Ran Gvili, the last Israeli hostage. Non-compliance will result in serious consequences.

Earlier, a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel was reached in October, along with a hostage-prisoner exchange and a partial Israeli withdrawal.

In light of this announcement, regional mediators from Egypt, Gaza, and Turkey have expressed their support for the newly formed Palestinian Technocratic Committee, which aims to strengthen stability and improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza. This committee will be led by Ali Shaath, a former deputy minister in the Palestinian Authority.

The transitional administration will operate under the supervision of a 'Board of Peace', chaired by Trump. Further announcements regarding the Board are anticipated in the coming days, including during Trump's visit to the World Economic Forum in Davos next week.

Nickolay Mladenov, the former UN Middle East envoy, will be the board's representative on the ground in Gaza, working closely with local authorities.

Furthermore, Hamas and its ally Palestinian Islamic Jihad have pledged to support the formation of the technocratic government while ensuring a conducive environment for its operation. The Palestinian Authority, dominated by Fatah, has also endorsed this initiative, with Vice-President Hussein al-Sheikh noting an opportunity for peace and governance.

The situation remains delicate, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterating the priority of returning hostage Ran Gvili, who was abducted during a Hamas-led assault in October.

As this phase unfolds, the international community watches closely, hopeful for a resolution that brings lasting peace to a region long marred by conflict.