The United States announced Wednesday the rollout of Phase 2 in President Trump’s comprehensive strategy to resolve the Gaza war. Special envoy Steve Witkoff’s briefing highlights a pivot to demilitarization, expert-led governance, and infrastructure revival after initial ceasefire gains.
Posting on social media, Witkoff said the 20-point initiative now advances to dismantle armed factions, install the National Committee for Gaza Administration (NCAG), and spearhead rebuilding efforts. This technocratic interim setup aims to stabilize the region professionally.
Demilitarization stands out as the cornerstone, focusing on neutralizing groups beyond authorized structures. ‘The primary emphasis is freeing all unauthorized armed elements from weapons,’ Witkoff noted, signaling bolder U.S. post-truce engagement.
Hamas faces clear expectations: complete fulfillment of duties, especially returning the final deceased hostage remains promptly. Failure invites ‘serious consequences,’ per Witkoff, underscoring Washington’s firm stance.
Phase 1 laid strong groundwork with unprecedented aid flows, unbroken ceasefire, all live hostages freed, and nearly all remains repatriated—27 of 28. Witkoff commended mediators Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar: ‘Their irreplaceable roles drove every achievement.’
This progression promises a secure, rebuilt Gaza under technocratic rule. With U.S. orchestration, Phase 2 tests commitments amid fragile peace, potentially unlocking broader regional reconciliation.