US envoy: Second Gaza phase begins, focuses on demilitarization

US envoy: Second Gaza phase begins, focuses on demilitarization

The United States' special envoy for Gaza, Steve Witkoff, has declared the commencement of the second phase of the ceasefire plan for the Palestinian enclave. The new phase prioritizes the complete demilitarization of the territory and the creation of an interim, non-political administration to oversee reconstruction.

Outline of the transitional plan

In a statement on X, Witkoff said Phase Two establishes a "transitional technocratic Palestinian administration," dubbed the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG). Its core mandates are "the full demilitarization and reconstruction of Gaza, primarily the disarmament of all unauthorized personnel." This suggests a move to dismantle the military infrastructure of groups like Hamas.

Demands on Hamas and regional diplomacy

The US envoy issued a direct demand to Hamas, stating it must "fully comply with its obligations," including "the immediate return of the final deceased hostage." He warned that "failure to do so will bring serious consequences." Witkoff also acknowledged the mediation efforts of three key regional players, specifically thanking "Türkiye, Egypt and Qatar for their indispensable mediation efforts that made all progress to date possible."

Political and operational challenges ahead

The announcement outlines an ambitious and highly contentious roadmap. The concept of a "technocratic" administration bypasses established Palestinian political factions, while the demand for total demilitarization is a red line for Hamas. For active mediators like Türkiye, which has consistently called for a permanent ceasefire and a sovereign Palestinian state, the plan's viability will depend on navigating these profound political disagreements and ensuring the initiative does not simply consolidate Israeli security control over Gaza.