US Kicks Off Phase Two of Gaza Peace Plan

Thu Jan 15 2026 03:59:51 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The US has officially announced the start of the second phase of the Gaza peace initiative, which includes establishing a technocratic government and plans for reconstruction in the region.

US envoy Steve Witkoff has announced the beginning of the second phase of the Gaza peace plan, featuring the establishment of a technocratic Palestinian government and aiming to reconstruct Gaza post-conflict. This phase also emphasizes disarmament of Hamas and other groups as part of a broader effort to restore stability in the region following years of war.

The US has initiated the second phase of President Trump's plan to bring peace to Gaza, following a lengthy period of conflict. Envoy Steve Witkoff outlined that this phase will introduce a technocratic government in Gaza aimed at facilitating reconstruction and disarmament, especially of Hamas.

Witkoff highlighted that Hamas must comply with specific obligations, including returning the remains of a deceased Israeli hostage, failing which there could be consequences. The first phase, initiated earlier, included a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange between Hamas and Israel, alongside an increase in humanitarian aid.

Regional mediators from Egypt, Gaza, and Turkey have welcomed the formation of the Palestinian Technocratic Committee, led by Ali Shaath from the Palestinian Authority. They believe this committee will help strengthen attempts to stabilize and improve living conditions in Gaza.

US President Trump is expected to oversee developments from a newly formed 'Board of Peace', with significant announcements anticipated as he prepares to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos shortly.

Former UN envoy Nickolay Mladenov will act as the board’s representative in Gaza. Following the US announcement, both Hamas and their ally, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, expressed support for this transitional government, which has also received backing from the rival Palestinian Authority.

In related matters, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu reaffirmed his commitment to prioritize the return of the last deceased hostage, while the humanitarian toll continues to escalate, with recent reports indicating over 71,430 fatalities in Gaza due to the ongoing conflict.