US unveils Palestinian group to run Gaza Strip as part of second phase of ceasefire

""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 demilitarisation, technocratic governance, and reconstruction," Mr Witkoff said in a post on X. It remains unclear how Hamas, which has regrouped since a fragile ceasefire began in October, will be disarmed as required by the plan. Israel and Hamas signed off in October on Mr Trump's plan, which says that the technocratic body will be overseen by the international "Board of Peace" that is meant to govern Gaza for a transitional period."

"The 15-member body launched on Wednesday will be headed by Ali Shaath, a former deputy minister in the Western-backed Palestinian Authority who had been in charge of developing industrial zones, according to a joint statement by mediators Egypt, Qatar and Turkey. Other members tapped by Nickolay Mladenov, the former UN Middle East envoy who is expected to represent the Board of Peace on the ground, include people from the private sector and NGOs, according to a list of the names obtained by Reuters."

Phase Two of the 20-Point Plan to End the Gaza Conflict launches, shifting from ceasefire to demilitarisation, technocratic governance, and reconstruction. The plan aims for full demilitarisation and reconstruction of Gaza, prioritising disarmament of unauthorised personnel. A 15-member National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) will administer Gaza during a transition and will be headed by Ali Shaath, a former deputy minister in the Palestinian Authority. Egypt, Qatar and Turkey acted as mediators in naming the committee. Nickolay Mladenov is expected to represent the international Board of Peace on the ground. Committee members include private sector and NGO figures. Hamas's disarmament remains uncertain. The US expects Hamas to comply fully, including the immediate return of the final deceased hostage. Another announcement related to the Board of Peace is expected at Davos next week.

Read at Irish Independent