New Phase in Israel-Hamas Peace Plan Announced

A U.S. envoy revealed on Wednesday that the second phase of a plan aimed at ending the conflict between Israel and Hamas has commenced. This phase focuses on forming a temporary, technocratic Palestinian government in Gaza.

According to Witkoff, the U.S. anticipates Hamas will meet its obligations, including the immediate return of the last deceased hostage. He warned that failing to do so could result in serious repercussions, as shared through a post on X.

The next steps will involve moving from a ceasefire to demilitarization, asserting a technocratic governance structure, and initiating reconstruction efforts.

However, Witkoff didn’t provide specific details regarding the potential governance of Gaza, which has been facing a humanitarian crisis since the onset of the conflict triggered by Hamas attacks on Israel.

In addition, he reiterated that the Trump administration expects immediate compliance from Hamas concerning the return of hostages.

The U.S. is working alongside Egyptian mediators and other regional partners to ensure that Hamas adheres to the conditions set forth in the peace plan.

As reported by U.S. and Arab diplomats, the plan may require Hamas to disarm its heavy weaponry and initiate a program aimed at “buying back” light weapons.

On another note, Israel has expressed its intention to prevent Turkish forces from being deployed in Gaza, viewing Turkey as a destabilizing influence, contrary to its claims of wishing to assist in reconstruction.