U.S. envoy announces start of 2nd phase of Gaza ceasefire agreement

CAIRO – 14 January 2026: U.S. presidential envoy Steve Witkoff announced the start of the second phase of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Witkoff expressed his deep gratitude to Egypt, Qatar and Turkey for their efforts, which enabled the progress in Gaza.

The Palestinian factions and political forces meeting in Cairo on Wednesday issued a joint statement affirming their full commitment to the continued implementation of the ceasefire agreement and the remaining phases of President Trump's plan.

The factions noted that the meeting was convened at the invitation of Egypt, under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

They highlighted that this gathering serves as a continuation of the mediation efforts led by Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey to finalize a ceasefire in accordance with the framework proposed by U.S. President Trump and to address the catastrophic humanitarian repercussions of the war.

The factions commend the intensive efforts of President Trump and the mediators to support the Palestinian people and alleviate their suffering.

The factions also supported the formation of a ‘Palestinian National Transitional Committee’ to govern Gaza. This technocratic body will manage daily civilian life and essential services.

The statement called for an immediate end to the Israeli aggression, the opening of all border crossings, and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces to allow aid and recovery to begin.

The factions expressed their gratitude to Egypt, President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and the mediators for their steadfast support of the Palestinian cause.

The Palestinian Presidency commended the role and efforts of mediating countries—Egypt, Qatar and Turkey—in moving to the second phase of the agreement in the Gaza Strip.

It also praised the efforts of U.S. President Donald Trump to complete the implementation of his peace plan and U.N. Security Council Resolution 2803, including the formation of the Peace Council and its executive bodies.

In a statement issued Wednesday, the presidency affirmed its support for the formation of the Palestinian committee to administer the Gaza Strip during this transitional phase.

Officials noted they have been in close contact with Special Envoy for Peace Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, U.S. teams and Nikolay Mladenov to support U.S. efforts aimed at consolidating the ceasefire and moving to the implementation of the second phase, including reconstruction.