Special Representative Stephen Whitcoff announced a new phase of the peace process in Gaza, acting on behalf of President Donald Trump.
According to Whitcoff, the second phase includes the establishment of a transitional administration, as well as the beginning of the demilitarization and reconstruction process in the region.
In his statement, the USA demands that Hamas fully comply with its obligations, including the return of the body of the last deceased Israeli hostage. Whitcoff emphasized that failure to meet these conditions could lead to serious consequences.
In October 2025, Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire and accepted a peace plan proposed by the Trump administration. The first phase of this plan involved an exchange: the return of Israeli hostages in exchange for the release of Palestinians from Israeli prisons.
Earlier in January, sources from The Times of Israel and The Wall Street Journal reported that the Israel Defense Forces had developed new plans for a ground operation in areas controlled by Hamas in Gaza.
This operation is reportedly scheduled for March 2026, but its implementation depends on the support of the USA, which continues to seek the disarmament of Hamas as part of Trump's peace process. According to sources, Hamas is refusing disarmament and is focused on restoring its military capabilities.
