U.S. Advances Phase Two of Trump‑Brokered Gaza Ceasefire, Technocratic Committee Formed

Updated 2026-01-17 13:42:15+00:00 (19 articles)

Phase Two Announced by White House and Envoy The White House declared on Jan 15 that the Gaza ceasefire plan entered its second phase, establishing a transitional Palestinian governing body and beginning disarmament and reconstruction efforts[3][4]. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff posted on X that the move follows two years of war and signals a concrete step forward, though many implementation details remain unsettled[5]. The announcement ties the new phase to the broader Trump‑brokered 20‑point framework approved by the UN Security Council[3].

Ali Shaath Heads New Technocratic Committee Engineers and former PA officials selected Ali Shaath to chair a committee of independent Palestinian experts that will manage daily Gaza affairs under U.S. supervision[2][3]. Mediators from Egypt, Turkey and Qatar welcomed the technocratic structure, emphasizing its role in stabilizing humanitarian conditions while broader political negotiations continue[4][5]. The committee is part of a larger Board of Peace, led by former President Trump, intended to coordinate international oversight of the ceasefire[1].

Hamas Disarmament and International Force Remain Contentious The second‑phase plan calls for the disarmament of Hamas and the deployment of an International Stabilization Force to support a Palestinian police unit, but Israel has resisted, citing the lack of progress on Hamas weapons and the unresolved return of hostages’ remains[1][4]. Prime Minister Netanyahu described the creation of the Palestinian committee as a “declarative” step rather than a substantive breakthrough[2][3]. Observers note that the success of the phase hinges on broad international cooperation and adherence to milestones that are still being negotiated[1].

Reconstruction Costs Exceed $50 Billion Amid Ongoing Casualties The United Nations estimates Gaza’s rebuilding will require more than $50 billion and take several years, with an initial three‑year reconstruction timeline outlined by committee head Ali Shaath[5][2]. Recent Israeli strikes killed nine civilians, including three women, underscoring the gap between diplomatic announcements and on‑the‑ground realities[2]. Winter shortages and displaced families living in tents further highlight the humanitarian challenges that the technocratic administration must address[2].