Portrait of Steve Witkoff
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Steve Witkoff on Gaza

Proponent of reconstruction plan (strong)

TL;DR

Steve Witkoff strongly advocates for the implementation of a multi-phase plan focused on ceasefire, demilitarization, and the reconstruction of Gaza.

Key Points

  • As Special Envoy for Peace Missions, he called the Board of Peace's first meeting in 2026 "uplifting" as $17 billion was pledged for reconstruction.

  • He stated that the plan's second phase focuses on establishing a transitional administration for the demilitarization and reconstruction of Gaza.

  • He blamed Hamas for renewed fighting in March 2025, asserting they had the opportunity to accept a proposal that would have extended the ceasefire for 40 to 50 days.

Summary

Steve Witkoff, in his role as the United States Special Envoy to the Middle East, announced the progression of a U.S.-brokered plan for Gaza into its second phase in January 2026. This plan, initially a 20-point proposal, is described by him as moving from a ceasefire toward the key objectives of demilitarization, technocratic governance, and comprehensive reconstruction of the territory. He stressed that Hamas must comply with its obligations, including the return of the final deceased hostage, warning of serious consequences otherwise.

His position is centered on the framework established by the Board of Peace, which he is part of, designed to oversee the transitional administration and security stabilization force in Gaza. The plan, which has seen significant pledges of financial aid, aims to create a new economic zone based on stability and professional management, emphasizing that the only path forward involves the demilitarization of the territory. He has also publicly placed blame on Hamas for renewed fighting after a proposed extension to the initial ceasefire deal failed to materialize due to their response.

Key Quotes

“Hamas had every opportunity to demilitarize, to accept the bridging proposal that would have given us a 40- or 50-day ceasefire where we could have discussed demilitarization and a final truce.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Steve Witkoff serves as the United States Special Envoy to the Middle East and Special Envoy for Peace Missions. In this capacity, he is heavily involved in pushing a multi-phase peace and reconstruction plan for Gaza under the framework of the Board of Peace.

The plan promoted by Steve Witkoff transitions from an initial ceasefire to a second phase centered on demilitarization of the territory, the installation of a technocratic governing body, and large-scale reconstruction efforts. He considers this the only viable path forward.

Yes, Steve Witkoff made a rare entry by an American official into Gaza on January 29, 2025, to personally oversee the implementation of the ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas.