Efforts to advance the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan are currently in motion, as indicated by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff. This development follows high-level discussions in Miami, which saw participation from representatives of Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, alongside U.S. officials.
Steve Witkoff took to X to elaborate on the talks, stating, “In our discussions about phase two, we focused on establishing a governing entity in Gaza that operates under a unified Gazan authority to ensure civilian protection and uphold public order.” He further mentioned that regional integration measures were a critical topic, stressing their significance for Gaza’s reconstruction and broader regional stability. These measures include trade facilitation, infrastructure development, and cooperation on vital resources such as energy and water.
Witkoff also highlighted the importance of sequencing and coordination in the phased execution of the Comprehensive Peace Plan for Gaza. He emphasized the necessity of effective monitoring and collaboration with local Gazan institutions and international partners to ensure the plan’s success.
Reflecting on the progress made during the initial phase of the ceasefire, the group expressed optimism for the future. Witkoff noted that the first phase had already shown positive results, with humanitarian aid reaching Gaza, a reduction in hostilities, and a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces. Notably, this phase facilitated the release of all surviving hostages and the return of most deceased hostages. The sole remaining hostage is Ran Gvili, an Israeli police officer who perished in the attacks on October 7, 2023.
A poignant image captures the aftermath of these events: Palestinians navigate through the debris left behind by Israeli forces after their withdrawal, amidst the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza City, dated October 11, 2025. (Dawoud Abu Alkas/File Photo/Reuters)
During the first phase, humanitarian aid went into the Gaza Strip, hostilities were reduced and there was a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces. Additionally, all living hostages and most deceased hostages were released. The last remaining hostage is Ran Gvili, an Israeli police officer who was killed during the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks.
Israeli soldiers watch the northern Gaza Strip from southern Israel, Wednesday, July 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg)
The U.S.-led talks on the second phase of the plan were proceeded by a similar meeting in Cairo, which reportedly included Turkey and Egypt’s intelligence chiefs, as well as Qatar’s prime minister.
“During the meeting, [they] also agreed to continue strengthening coordination and cooperation with the Civil Military Coordination Center to eliminate all obstacles to ensure the continuity of the ceasefire and to prevent further violations,” a Turkish source told Reuters, adding that they also discussed countering alleged Israeli ceasefire violations.
Palestinians walk on a street among rubble of buildings destroyed during the Israeli offensive, amid a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, at Jabalia refugee camp, northern Gaza Strip, Feb. 17, 2025 (REUTERS/Mahmoud Issa)
The second phase of the deal involves the deployment of an international stabilization force and the development of an international body to govern Gaza. It also includes the disarmament of Hamas. Additionally, Israel will move further from the so-called “yellow line” ahead of the international force taking over, according to The Times of Israel.
