Who was the US Special Envoy who announced the commencement of the second phase of the Gaza peace plan?

Steve Witkoff, the United States Special Envoy to the Middle East, indeed made the announcement regarding the commencement of the second phase of the Gaza peace plan. This significant declaration occurred on January 14, 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to resolve the protracted conflict in the region. Witkoff, a real estate developer by profession, was appointed to this diplomatic role by former President Donald Trump in November 2024, despite his limited formal diplomatic experience. He has since played a key role in negotiations concerning the Gaza conflict.

The Gaza peace plan, officially known as the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict, was initially unveiled by President Trump on September 29, 2025. It was subsequently signed on October 9, 2025, and endorsed by the United Nations Security Council on November 17, 2025. The first phase of this multilateral agreement focused on establishing an immediate ceasefire, securing the release of all living and deceased hostages, facilitating the exchange of Palestinian prisoners, and ensuring the resumption of full humanitarian aid to Gaza.

The transition to the second phase, as announced by Witkoff, outlines a shift towards the complete demilitarization and reconstruction of Gaza. A key component of this phase is the establishment of a transitional technocratic Palestinian administration, known as the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, which is intended to oversee the enclave's day-to-day affairs. Furthermore, this phase aims for the disarmament of all unauthorized personnel within Gaza. While the plan envisions a "renaissance" for the war-torn region, with pledges of billions of dollars for reconstruction through a "Board of Peace," challenges remain, including ongoing skepticism about the plan's implementation and continued hostilities in the area.