United States: The United States on Wednesday announced that its plan to end the Gaza war has entered Phase Two, with a central focus on the disarmament of Hamas, even as Israeli strikes were reported during the ongoing ceasefire.
US President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, said the new phase marks a transition from a ceasefire to long-term stabilisation measures in Gaza. The announcement was made through a post on social media platform X.
“We are announcing the launch of Phase Two of the President’s 20-Point Plan to End the Gaza Conflict, moving from ceasefire to demilitarisation, technocratic governance, and reconstruction,” Witkoff wrote.
What Phase Two of the Gaza Plan Involves
According to the US envoy, Phase Two aims to lay the groundwork for post-war Gaza by addressing security, governance, and rebuilding. A key component of the plan is the full demilitarisation of the territory, with particular emphasis on disarming armed groups operating outside any authorised framework.
“Phase Two begins the full demilitarisation and reconstruction of Gaza, primarily the disarmament of all unauthorised personnel,” Witkoff said, underscoring Washington’s expectation that Hamas will comply with the new conditions.
Technocratic Committee to Govern Post-War Gaza
The second phase also includes the establishment of a 15-member Palestinian technocratic committee that will oversee the administration of Gaza after the conflict. The formation of this committee was announced earlier on Wednesday by Egypt, a key US ally and one of the main mediators in the Gaza ceasefire negotiations.
The committee is expected to focus on civil administration, humanitarian coordination, and reconstruction efforts, keeping governance separate from armed factions.
Warning to Hamas Over Hostages
Witkoff issued a clear warning to Hamas, stating that the group must meet all its obligations under the plan, including the immediate return of the final deceased hostage.
“The US expects Hamas to comply fully with its obligations. Failure to do so will bring serious consequences,” he said, signalling that Washington is prepared to respond firmly if the group does not cooperate.
Ceasefire Under Strain
The announcement comes amid reports of Israeli strikes despite the ceasefire, raising questions about the durability of the truce as negotiations move into a more complex and politically sensitive phase.
US officials, however, maintain that Phase Two is essential for ensuring long-term stability in Gaza and preventing a return to large-scale conflict.