White House Says Gaza Entering ‘Phase Two’ of Trump Peace Plan After Hostage Return

Washington — The White House announced that Gaza is moving into “phase two” of President Donald Trump’s peace plan, following the return of all hostages except one. Senior officials are now engaged in “quiet planning” to shape the next stage of regional diplomacy.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described the development as “a success” during her weekly briefing. She said that just ten months into Trump’s administration, discussing a peace plan for Gaza had become “a legitimate reality on the ground,” made possible “only because of this President’s leadership.”

Leavitt confirmed that all hostages had been returned, except for the body of one deceased individual. She added that US negotiators are now working on “phase two of the peace deal,” which includes establishing a “Board of Peace,” coordinating with the Israeli Security Forces (ISF), and supporting the formation of a Palestinian “technocratic government.”

She emphasized that the diplomatic efforts are intentionally discreet. “They are trying to be deliberate and thoughtful,” she said. “The Gaza Strip is something that people have been trying to accomplish for 70 years. We want to ensure an enduring and lasting peace.”

Responding to a question about US participation in upcoming meetings with European and Ukrainian officials on the Russia–Ukraine conflict, Leavitt said Trump is “extremely frustrated with both sides,” and that no final decision had been made.

She also declined to express concern over a phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, stating, “I don't think that would be concerning to the President at all.”

India continues to monitor developments closely, given its longstanding political, economic, and diaspora linkages with the Middle East. The region is home to millions of Indian workers and is a crucial source of energy imports. Any shift in US posture toward Gaza and the wider region affects strategic calculations across Asia, particularly India’s calibrated relationships with Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and Gulf nations.

India has consistently advocated for peace in the region while maintaining strong historic ties with all major stakeholders.

Efforts to secure lasting peace in Gaza have been repeatedly hindered by shifting regional alliances, Iranian influence, and internal Palestinian political divisions. The United States remains central to shaping the post-conflict governance and security architecture.

—With inputs from IANS