• Source:JND
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US President Donald Trump announced that phase two of his Gaza ceasefire deal has officially begun, following the successful completion of the first stage, which saw all 20 living Israeli hostages returned and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners released. Speaking at a summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, alongside Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Trump said, "A big burden has been lifted, but the job is not done. The dead have not been returned, as promised! Phase Two begins right now!"

The first phase of the deal focused on halting hostilities between Israel and Hamas and addressing the hostage crisis. It culminated in a high-profile hostage-prisoner swap, which included the release of Palestinian detainees from Israel’s Ofer and Negev Desert prisons. Trump’s 20-point plan was negotiated in consultation with several Arab and Muslim nations, including Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, following heightened tensions in the region, including an Israeli attack on Doha that targeted Hamas negotiators.

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Phase Two: Demilitarisation And Security Measures

Phase two aims to demilitarise Gaza and enforce long-term security measures. Under the plan, Gaza will become a “de-radicalised, terror-free zone” that poses no threat to neighbouring countries. Hamas members who commit to peaceful coexistence will be offered amnesty, with safe passage provided for those opting for exile. Key components include the destruction of offensive weaponry, tunnels, and military infrastructure.

Additionally, a temporary international stabilisation force, composed of US, Arab, and European personnel, will be deployed to oversee security, assist in training a Palestinian police force, and ensure that peace measures are implemented effectively. Trump acknowledged that the path to peace would be complex, noting that elements of the plan could be carried out out of order in a positive way to adapt to on-ground realities.

Phase Three: Governance And Reconstruction

The third phase will focus on governance and rebuilding Gaza. A transitional administration led by Palestinian technocrats and supervised by an international body is planned to manage day-to-day governance. The administration will oversee infrastructure rehabilitation and ensure the fair and efficient delivery of humanitarian aid, coordinated by organisations like the United Nations and Red Crescent. Efforts will also be made to encourage Palestinians to remain and rebuild their communities, providing support to those willing to stay and participate in reconstruction.

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Since October 2023, Israeli military operations have killed over 67,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, leaving Gaza heavily damaged. Phase two of Trump’s plan seeks to stabilise the enclave, prevent future violence, and pave the way for long-term peace while addressing both humanitarian and security concerns.