US Begins Phase Two of Gaza Peace Initiative, Focusing on Reconstruction

Thu Jan 15 2026 00:23:13 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The United States has officially launched the second phase of its peace plan in Gaza, aimed at establishing a Palestinian technocratic government and initiating reconstruction efforts following two years of conflict.

On January 14, 2026, US envoy Steve Witkoff announced the commencement of phase two of the peace initiative designed to resolve the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This phase focuses on the establishment of a technocratic Palestinian government, disarmament of Hamas, and significant reconstruction efforts in the region. The international community, including Egypt and Turkey, has welcomed the formation of a new Palestinian administration, while concerns remain over compliance from Hamas regarding its obligations under the plan.

On January 14, 2026, US envoy Steve Witkoff announced the start of phase two of President Donald Trump's comprehensive plan to end the protracted conflict in Gaza, which includes the establishment of a technocratic Palestinian government aimed at stabilizing the territory.

The second phase will focus on the reconstruction and full demilitarization of Gaza, which encompasses the disarmament of Hamas and other Palestinian factions. Witkoff emphasized the expectation for Hamas to fully comply with its obligations, specifically the return of the late Israeli hostage's remains, warning of serious consequences should they fail to adhere.

Phase one saw a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, which also included a hostage-prisoner exchange, a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces, and a significant influx of humanitarian aid.

The announcement has garnered regional support, receiving positive responses from mediators from Egypt, Gaza, and Turkey. They praised the formation of the Palestinian Technocratic Committee to Administer the Gaza Strip as a crucial step towards improving stability and humanitarian conditions.

This 15-member committee will be led by Ali Shaath, a former deputy planning minister, overseen by a Board of Peace, chaired by Trump himself as laid out in a previous 20-point plan unveiled three months prior. Further details regarding the board's actions are anticipated during Trump's upcoming visit to the World Economic Forum in Davos.

In a related development, Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) have indicated their support for the technocratic government's establishment and are committed to fostering a suitable environment for its operations.

Moreover, Palestinian Authority figures have echoed similar sentiments, viewing Trump's leadership as a newfound opportunity for peace and stability within Palestinian territories. They urge all factions to rally together to ensure the success of this transitional phase.

Additionally, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed that the safe return of hostages remains a critical priority, promising to continue efforts for the return of Ran Gvili, the last deceased hostage, regardless of the new committee's establishment.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 71,430 casualties according to reports from Gaza's health ministry, following Israel's military campaign in response to an earlier Hamas-led attack.