The Trump administration announced Wednesday that the Gaza peace plan is moving into its second phase, shifting from a ceasefire toward demilitarization, governance reform and large-scale reconstruction.
U.S. special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said Phase Two launches President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan to end the Gaza conflict and focuses on “the full demilitarization and reconstruction of Gaza.”
Focus on Demilitarization and Governance
According to Witkoff, the next phase establishes a transitional, technocratic Palestinian administration known as the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG). The committee is expected to oversee daily governance, including sanitation, infrastructure and education.
A key component of Phase Two is the disarmament of all unauthorized armed groups, aimed at stabilizing the territory and loosening Hamas’ control.
Hostage Return Remains Central Issue
Witkoff said the U.S. expects Hamas to fully comply with the agreement, including the immediate return of the final deceased hostage, identified by Israeli officials as Ran Gvili. He warned that failure to do so would bring “serious consequences.”
Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office reiterated that Gvili’s return is a top priority, calling on Hamas to meet the terms of the ceasefire agreement.
Hamas Signals Conditional Support
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem described the launch of Phase Two as an “important positive development” and said the group is prepared to hand over Gaza’s administration to the NCAG. However, he urged the United States to pressure Israel to fully implement commitments from the first phase of the ceasefire.
International Oversight Planned
The NCAG is expected to consist of about 15 Palestinian leaders and will ultimately be overseen by a “Board of Peace,” made up of 12 international figures. Trump and several European leaders are expected to play leading roles on the board, with formal announcements anticipated soon.
Former United Nations Middle East peace envoy and ex-Bulgarian foreign minister Nickolay Mladenov will serve as senior representative for the Board of Peace, acting as a liaison between the international body and the NCAG.
Regional Mediation and Support
Witkoff thanked Egypt, Turkey and Qatar for their mediation efforts, crediting them with enabling progress so far. In a joint statement, the three countries welcomed the formation of the NCAG, calling it a step toward greater stability and improved humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
Background on Phase One
The first phase of the peace plan, launched in October 2025, included the release of living hostages and the return of remains of deceased hostages, alongside the release of more than 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. It also involved an Israeli military pullback to a designated line in Gaza and the easing of restrictions on humanitarian aid.
For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.