The US announced the start of phase two of President Trump's Gaza peace plan. US envoy Steve Witkoff made the announcement today. The plan aims to rebuild Gaza with a new technocratic Palestinian government.
Phase one saw a ceasefire agreed to in October between Hamas and Israel. It also included a hostage-prisoner exchange and a partial Israeli withdrawal. An aid surge into Gaza was also part of phase one. Phase two focuses on reconstruction and full demilitarization. This includes the disarmament of Hamas and other Palestinian groups.
Witkoff stated the US expects Hamas to comply fully with its obligations. He warned of serious consequences for non-compliance. A key obligation is the return of the body of the last dead Israeli hostage.
Hamas has previously refused to disarm without an independent Palestinian state. Israel has not fully committed to withdrawing from Gaza. The ceasefire remains fragile, with both sides trading accusations.
The success of phase two hinges on Hamas's disarmament and Israel's cooperation. Future developments will depend on negotiations and adherence to the ceasefire.
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