Trump Launches Phase Two of Gaza Peace Plan with New Board

President Donald Trump has moved his Gaza peace plan into its second phase, announcing steps toward disarming Hamas, setting up a temporary government, and rebuilding the territory. The White House revealed the details this week, building on a ceasefire that started in October 2025 after hostage releases and prisoner swaps. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff made the announcement on January 14, 2026, saying the plan shifts from stopping the fighting to long-term changes in Gaza.

Background

The Gaza conflict dragged on for months before Trump stepped in with his 20-point plan last year. He unveiled it on September 29, 2025, at the White House with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The plan set a tight deadline for Hamas to agree by October 5. Hamas responded early, on October 3, by promising to free remaining hostages and hand over Gaza's administration to independent Palestinian experts. They did not agree to give up weapons or their influence right away.

By October 8, Israel and Hamas had a deal for phase one. Israeli forces pulled back to set lines within 72 hours. In return, Hamas released all living hostages, and Israel let go 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including some with life sentences. The ceasefire took hold on October 10, though small violations happened on both sides. Aid flowed into Gaza at high levels, something Trump highlighted as a success.

The United Nations backed the plan on November 17, 2025. Talks involved Arab countries, Egypt, and others. Phase one froze battle lines and stopped bombings. Now, with phase two, the focus turns to making Gaza safe and stable without terror groups. Trump has called it a fair deal, warning Hamas to follow through or face consequences.

Key Details

Phase two starts with demilitarization. That means destroying Hamas tunnels, weapons, and bases. The plan wants Gaza to become a place free of terror threats to neighbors. Amnesty is on offer for Hamas members who choose peace and leave fighting behind. Those who want can leave Gaza safely.

A big part of this phase is a new Board of Peace. Trump named himself chairman. Other members include former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, his son-in-law Jared Kushner, and US Senator Marco Rubio. The board will oversee a National Committee for the Administration of Gaza. This is a group of 15 technocrats, led by former Palestinian Authority official Abdel Hamid Shaath. They will run daily affairs during the transition. Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey helped pick the committee.

An international force will help too. It includes US, Arab, and European troops. Their job is to keep security, train a Palestinian police force, and watch over the changes. Reconstruction comes next. Gaza needs to clear over 50 million tonnes of rubble and bombs. The plan talks about redeveloping the area for local people who have faced years of hardship.

Governance and Security Steps

Trump posted on Truth Social that the US has delivered record aid to Gaza civilians since the ceasefire. He said this sets up phase two. The technocratic group will govern while the board guides from above. Hamas must return the body of the last dead Israeli hostage right away. Full disarmament is the key test. Witkoff stressed that Hamas has to meet all its promises.

"Today, on behalf of President Trump, we are announcing the launch of Phase Two of the President's 20-Point Plan to End the Gaza Conflict, moving from ceasefire to demilitarization, technocratic governance, and reconstruction." – Steve Witkoff, US Special Envoy

France's UN ambassador Jérôme Bonnafont called the ceasefire a big win. He said phase two could open aid widely and bring in forces to disarm Hamas and let the Palestinian Authority take over Gaza management.

What This Means

This phase tests if the peace can last. Disarming Hamas after years in control will not be easy. Experts say it is the real challenge. The technocratic government aims to run things without militants, but Hamas still has sway in parts of Gaza. The international force could help enforce rules, but it needs buy-in from all sides.

Rebuilding Gaza will take years. Clearing debris and unexploded devices is a huge task. Neighboring countries may host some displaced Palestinians during this. Israel wants security guarantees. Trump has said the US will lead, even hinting at taking control if needed. Arab states like Egypt are involved to keep stability.

For Gaza residents, this could mean less fighting and more aid. Over a million people have suffered losses. A terror-free zone might bring investment and jobs. But violations could restart clashes. Hamas has to decide if it follows the deal or risks more pressure. Israel watches closely for threats.

Trump frames it as peace through strength. The board with Blair, Kushner, and Rubio brings experience from past Middle East efforts. Blair led in Northern Ireland peace. Kushner worked on Abraham Accords. Rubio knows US policy well. Their role is to guide the transition and reconstruction.

The plan's success depends on compliance. Phase one worked despite bumps. Phase two pushes further. Aid keeps coming, and the world watches. Palestinian groups beyond Hamas must disarm too. The US works with partners to make it happen. Gaza's future hangs on these steps.