Trump Administration Launches Phase Two of Gaza Peace Plan
On Wednesday, the Trump administration unveiled the second phase of President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace initiative for Gaza. This phase aims to bolster the shaky ceasefire between Hamas and Israel.
U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff shared that this new phase will transition Gaza from a temporary halt in hostilities to demilitarization, the establishment of a technocratic governance structure, and long-term reconstruction efforts. A pivotal component involves the creation of a Palestinian transitional governing body known as the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG).
“The United States expects Hamas to fully comply with its obligations,” Witkoff stated. He also mentioned potential “serious consequences” for noncompliance in a post on X.
Witkoff briefly outlined the details, indicating that the focus for this phase would include disarming Hamas, withdrawing additional Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), and creating an international stabilization force made up of foreign troops to maintain order in the Gaza Strip. As of now, the specific countries contributing to this force have not been announced.
The NCAG, which will include 15 members, will be led by Ali Shas, a former deputy minister in the Western-backed Palestinian Authority. Reports indicate that this endeavor has support from intermediaries in Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye.
Despite the ceasefire, tensions persist. Recent clashes have been reported, and while Hamas has returned nearly all hostages captured during the October 7 attack on Israel, Witkoff emphasized the need for the immediate return of the last hostage’s remains.
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas expressed his support for this initiative. He welcomed Trump’s efforts to advance the peace plan after the formation of the Gaza Commission. Abbas highlighted the importance of collaborating with the United States and other relevant parties to take decisive actions in the West Bank, particularly during the transition period in Gaza.
President Trump is also anticipated to reveal members of a forthcoming “peace commission” expected to oversee the implementation of the peace plan. However, uncertainty lingers around whether Hamas will stick to its commitments. Since the ceasefire was initiated in October, Hamas has reasserted control over much of the Gaza Strip. They have indicated plans to dissolve their governing authority once NCAG takes charge, but have yet to provide a timeline for this transition.
