The United States has launched phase two of its Gaza peace plan, establishing a technocratic administration to replace both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority in governance of the territory. The move marks the first explicit US-backed effort to implement non-political rule in Gaza, shifting the focus from ceasefire management to demilitarisation, governance, and reconstruction.
The newly formed National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) will serve as a transitional, service-oriented body, selected through consultations with regional mediators and Palestinian factions. Its primary mandate is to rebuild Gaza, restore essential services, and improve daily life for residents while maintaining neutrality.
US Special Envoy for Peace Missions Steve Witkoff stated that phase two is a key step in President Donald Trump’s 20-Point Plan to end the Gaza conflict. He emphasized that the administration will work to dismantle terror infrastructure, remove heavy weapons, and prevent future cycles of violence, which officials said are crucial for long-term reconstruction.
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Officials acknowledged ongoing challenges, including ensuring Hamas meets its obligations under the agreement, such as the return of the final deceased hostage. They stressed that full compliance is essential for maintaining the ceasefire and ensuring stability, noting the group’s long history of military entrenchment in Gaza.
Phase one of the US plan had already achieved significant humanitarian gains, with over 53,000 aid trucks delivering two million pallets of goods. Vaccination drives reached tens of thousands of children, and rubble clearance facilitated safer living conditions, setting the stage for broader reconstruction under the NCAG.
Regional mediators, including Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar, played a pivotal role in the initial phase and will continue to support implementation. US officials highlighted their indispensable efforts in facilitating dialogue, ensuring compliance, and enabling a transition to technocratic governance aimed at long-term peace and stability in Gaza.
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