A significant development has emerged in the Gaza conflict as U.S. diplomatic efforts transition into their second phase. President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, confirmed the progression via social media, outlining a comprehensive shift from ceasefire arrangements toward demilitarization, technocratic governance, and reconstruction initiatives.
The newly established 15-member Palestinian technocratic committee will assume administrative control over Gaza, operating under the supervision of an international ‘Board of Peace’ chaired personally by President Trump. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty announced that all Palestinian factions have reached consensus on the committee’s composition, with former Palestinian Authority Deputy Minister Ali Shaath appointed to lead the governing body.
This governance framework represents a crucial component of the 20-point U.S. peace plan, moving beyond the initial phase implemented in October that involved ceasefire protocols, prisoner-hostage exchanges, partial Israeli military withdrawal, and humanitarian aid escalation. The committee’s mandate includes managing daily life and essential services within the devastated territory, with deployment expected imminently.
Notably, Hamas and its ally Islamic Jihad have committed to supporting the committee’s work despite their declared intention to avoid direct governance roles. A senior Hamas official, Taher al-Nunu, expressed the faction’s willingness to ensure the committee’s successful operation while limiting their involvement to oversight functions.
However, significant challenges remain regarding the demilitarization requirements. Witkoff emphasized that phase two necessitates ‘full demilitarization and reconstruction of Gaza, primarily the disarmament of all unauthorized personnel.’ The U.S. expects Hamas to comply with these obligations, including the return of deceased hostage Ran Gvili, warning of ‘serious consequences’ for non-compliance.
Israeli officials had previously insisted they would not discuss phase two until Gvili’s remains were returned, though Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has since assured the family that governance developments would not hinder repatriation efforts. Meanwhile, discussions in Cairo have focused on additional critical elements including Israeli troop withdrawal, Rafah crossing reopening, and aid distribution mechanisms.
The Board of Peace is anticipated to be announced within days, reportedly comprising approximately 15 world leaders with former UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov expected to lead ground operations.