Witkoff: US launches second phase of plan for Gaza

Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff announced on Wednesday the launch of the second phase of the plan to end the conflict in Gaza by establishing a technocratic Palestinian administration in the enclave.

"The US expects Hamas to properly fulfill its commitments, including the immediate return of the last deceased hostage. Failure to do so will have serious consequences," Witkoff wrote in a post on X.

The US president is expected to present a plan for the post-war administration of the Gaza Strip on Wednesday. According to Palestinian sources, the area will be temporarily administered by a 14-member technocratic committee led by Ali Sha'at under the supervision of the International Peace Council.

Hamas will not be represented in this body. The committee is to be composed of figures from civil society and business, selected by former UN envoy Nikolay Mladenov.

Despite problems with implementing the ceasefire, Trump has announced a transition to the second phase of the plan, including the establishment of a peacekeeping force. The first phase was disrupted by Israeli attacks, Hamas's unwillingness to disarm, and delays in opening the Rafah crossing.

Hamas is making the establishment of a Palestinian state a condition for laying down its arms.

Negotiations with Palestinian factions are underway in Cairo, with Hamas and Fatah having already agreed on a list of committee members.

(reuters, pir)