US Unveils Phase Two of Peace Plan for Gaza with Technocratic Government
The United States has announced the initiation of phase two of President Donald Trump’s comprehensive plan aimed at concluding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This new phase involves the establishment of a technocratic Palestinian government in the territory, focusing on reconstruction efforts and the disarmament of militant groups, including Hamas.
This development is significant as it represents a pivotal effort to stabilize the region after months of violence. The establishment of a technocratic government not only aims to enhance governance in Gaza but also seeks to create a conducive environment for peace negotiations among Palestinian factions and Israel.
Key Developments
- US envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed the beginning of phase two, emphasizing the need for the disarmament of Hamas and other groups.
- He warned that Hamas must comply with its obligations, including the return of the last Israeli hostage.
- Regional mediators, including Egypt and Turkey, welcomed the formation of the newly established "Palestinian Technocratic Committee to Administer the Gaza Strip," which will be led by Ali Shaath.
- President Trump is expected to chair a "Board of Peace" overseeing the transitional administration.
- Former UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov will serve as the board’s representative in Gaza.
- Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad pledged their support for the efforts to form the technocratic government.
- The office of Israel’s Prime Minister confirmed ongoing conversations regarding the return of the last Israeli hostage, Ran Gvili.
Full Report
US Implementation of Phase Two
Steve Witkoff, the US envoy, announced the commencement of phase two of the initiative aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza. This phase focuses on forming a technocratic Palestinian government, which is intended to ensure the reconstruction of the area and promote security through the disarmament of groups including Hamas. Witkoff asserted that the US expects full compliance from Hamas regarding its responsibilities, which notably includes the return of the body of last Israeli hostage Ran Gvili. He also warned that failure to adhere to these commitments would result in "serious consequences."
Formation of the Technocratic Government
Regional mediators, particularly Egypt, Gaza, and Turkey, have expressed support for the newly established governance structure, highlighting its potential to improve humanitarian conditions and stability. This “Palestinian Technocratic Committee” will consist of 15 members and will be overseen by a “Board of Peace” chaired by President Trump. This board will take an active role in guiding the technocratic administration, with announcements regarding its work expected shortly.
Ali Shaath, the chosen leader of this new committee, previously served as a deputy planning minister in the Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the West Bank. His role is pivotal as the transitional administration aims to foster collaboration among various Palestinian factions.
Reactions from Key Players
Hamas and its ally, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, released a joint statement affirming their commitment to supporting the formation of the technocratic government, emphasizing their intent to create a suitable environment for its operations. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority, led by Fatah, echoed this sentiment. Vice-President Hussein al-Sheikh noted that Trump’s efforts have opened new avenues for peace and encouraged all Palestinian factions to work towards the success of this transitional phase.
In tandem, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu communicated with the family of Ran Gvili, reassuring them that his return remains the highest priority, stating that the establishment of the technocratic committee will not detract from efforts to facilitate Gvili’s burial in Israel.
Context & Previous Events
The initial phase of Trump’s plan was marked by a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel in October, alongside a hostage-prisoner exchange and partial Israeli military withdrawal. The recent ratcheting up of tensions, especially following the attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in over 1,200 fatalities and the abduction of several individuals, sets the stage for these current developments in Gaza. Since the onset of military operations in response to these events, reports indicate that more than 71,430 fatalities have occurred in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian intervention and effective governance.
