White House: “Advanced Planning are Underway for Phase Two of the Gaza Agreement”

White House spokeswoman Caroline Levitt stated on Thursday that the United States is actively working to ensure the return of the final Israeli hostage held in the Gaza Strip, Ran Gueili. Speaking at the weekly press briefing, Levitt emphasized that all living hostages have been brought back to Israel, and all but one of the bodies have been returned. “We are, of course, still working to bring the last one home,” she said.

Levitt confirmed that the administration is deep into “quiet, advanced diplomatic planning” for what it terms Phase Two of the agreement. “When the United States is ready to make public announcements regarding the ‘Peace Council,’ the International Stabilization Force (ISF), and the Palestinian technocratic government, we will do so at the appropriate time,” she noted.

sensitivity and complexity of the process

According to Levitt, the low media profile surrounding negotiations stems from the sensitivity and complexity of the process. “The reason the teams and mediators on the ground are engaging relatively quietly, as I was told this morning, is that they are aiming to be precise, balanced, and cautious,” she explained. “Achieving sustainable peace in Gaza is something people have sought for 70 years. This is a deeply complex issue, and the administration wants to move forward thoughtfully to ensure stability and lasting peace. When the declarations are ready, they will be published.”

Levitt Addresses Questions About Trump’s Bandages

Levitt also responded to recent speculation regarding bandages seen on President Donald Trump’s hands. She said they resulted from the high volume of handshakes the president has exchanged in recent days, “at the rate of a real central station.” She added that the president is on an aspirin regimen, which contributes to the need for protective bandaging.