U.S. envoy announces launch of Phase 2 of Gaza truce

U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff announced the start of Phase 2 of a Gaza ceasefire plan focused on demilitarization, a technocratic Palestinian administration and reconstruction, and said the U.S. expects Hamas to comply, including returning the final deceased hostage.

U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff announced the launch of Phase 2 of a ceasefire plan for Gaza. He said this phase will focus on demilitarizing the enclave, establishing a technocratic Palestinian administration and supporting reconstruction. The announcement was posted on the social media platform X. Witkoff did not provide further details about the composition or authority of the transitional administration. Reported facts: - Steve Witkoff, identified as the U.S. special envoy, announced the start of Phase 2. - The phase was described as centring on demilitarization, a technocratic Palestinian administration and reconstruction. - The announcement was made on social media platform X and included no detailed plan for the transitional administration. - Witkoff said the U.S. expects Hamas to comply with obligations, including returning the final deceased hostage, and warned of serious consequences for noncompliance. Summary: The announcement signals a procedural move to the next phase of the ceasefire plan and emphasizes expectations of compliance by the parties involved. Undetermined at this time.