A newly formed Palestinian technocratic committee has arrived in Cairo to prepare for administering the Gaza Strip, marking a critical step in stabilizing the war-torn enclave. The 15-member team, led by veteran engineer Ali Abdel Hamid Shaath, began coordination meetings this week following delays attributed to Israeli obstruction.
International Coordination Intensifies
The mobilization comes as Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye jointly announced the committee's formation on January 14, 2026, while U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed progress on implementing Phase Two of the October 2025 ceasefire agreement. Sources indicate Washington will soon establish a peace council to oversee reconstruction efforts.
Ceasefire Reality Check
Despite the truce brokered by four nations taking effect on October 10, 2025, violence persists along Gaza's contentious 'Yellow Line' security buffer. Recent clashes claimed multiple civilian lives this week, including a child killed in Deir al-Balah airstrikes. Health authorities report 451 ceasefire-period deaths through January 15.
Humanitarian Imperative
With the conflict's total death toll surpassing 71,000 since October 2023, Palestinian factions are urging Israel to fully open crossings for aid delivery. The technocratic committee's first priority will be coordinating emergency relief distribution ahead of assuming administrative duties.
