Progress reported in Gaza ceasefire’s first phase, Witkoff says

U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said tangible progress has been made in the first phase of the ceasefire in Gaza, while efforts are underway to move forward with the second phase of the process.

Progress in the first phase

In a statement shared on social media, Witkoff said officials from Türkiye, the United States, Qatar and Egypt met in Miami to review the implementation of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire and to advance preparations for the next stage. He noted that progress has been achieved on key issues including the expansion of humanitarian aid, the return of the remains of hostages, partial troop withdrawals and a reduction in hostilities.

Second phase discussions

Witkoff emphasized that talks on the second phase focused on protecting civilians and maintaining public order in Gaza. He underlined the importance of establishing a governing body under a unified Gaza authority to ensure stability during the next stage of the ceasefire.

Reconstruction and regional cooperation

According to Witkoff, the meeting also addressed Gaza’s recovery and long-term regional stability. Topics included facilitating trade, developing infrastructure, and cooperation on energy, water and other shared resources. He added that participants expressed support for the establishment and activation of a Peace Council as a transitional administration to oversee civilian governance, security and reconstruction.

Commitment to Trump’s peace plan

Witkoff reaffirmed commitment to President Trump’s 20-point peace plan, calling on all parties to meet their obligations, exercise restraint and cooperate with monitoring mechanisms. He said further consultations will continue in the coming weeks to advance the implementation of the second phase of the ceasefire.