US launches phase two of Gaza peace plan, establishes technocratic governance

Washington: The United States has approved a technocratic administration for Gaza, formally launching phase two of President Donald Trump's 20-Point Plan to end the conflict. This marks the first explicit US-backed effort to remove both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority from governing the territory, transitioning from ceasefire management to demilitarisation, governance, and reconstruction.

US Special Envoy for Peace Missions Steve Witkoff announced the development, stating that phase two establishes the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG)—a transitional, non-political body selected through consultations with regional mediators and Palestinian factions. Focused on service delivery and rebuilding, the NCAG aims to improve daily life for residents without ideological affiliations.

This is the first time in years that Gaza will not be governed by either Hamas or the Palestinian Authority, two senior administration officials emphasized. The shift comes even as efforts continue to resolve outstanding hostage issues: all living hostages have been returned, and remains of 27 out of 28 deceased hostages recovered, with searches ongoing under the ceasefire.

Witkoff warned that Hamas must fulfill its remaining obligations, including returning the final deceased hostage's remains, or face "serious consequences." Officials acknowledged challenges in disarming the group, given its entrenched military infrastructure, but stressed that eliminating terror capabilities is essential for sustainable reconstruction and preventing future conflicts.

Phase one achievements include over 53,000 aid trucks entering Gaza, delivery of more than two million pallets of goods, vaccination of tens of thousands of children, and clearance of large rubble areas. Witkoff expressed gratitude to Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar for their mediation, noting their continued role in the process.

(Inputs from IANS)