The joint statement issued by the American envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, following a meeting of representatives from the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey in Miami, was not merely a technical follow-up on the ceasefire in Gaza, but instead reflected a shift from managing the fire to managing the day after, and from the logic of battle to the logic of governance.
The language of the statement was calm and reassuring, but at its core, it was a language of crisis management, not a declaration of peace. The first phase was not the end of the conflict as much as it was a reset of its rhythm, designed to prevent a total explosion and to give mediators time to shape the subsequent scene.
The real transformation begins with discussions of the "second phase," where the question of governance becomes the most prominent issue: Who governs Gaza? How? And under what reference?
The phrase "a governance body under a unified Gazan authority" seems intentionally ambiguous, but in practice, it refers to a transitional, functionally limited sovereignty entity, subject to international oversight, excluding previous forms of governance.
The "Peace Council" is nothing but a transitional management with a civilian-security character overseeing reconstruction and maintaining order, reflecting the mediators' recognition of the fragility of any singular local authority after the war.
Notably absent is the presence of a political Palestinian actor in the statement; no mention of a national reference or elections, reinforcing the hypothesis of a temporary administrative solution managed outside national consensus. Conversely, the messages to Israel are cautious, seeking to curb escalation without direct confrontation.
Regionally, including Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey reflects a delicate balance attempt, which might evolve into role conflicts if the reference is not determined. Ultimately, we are dealing with a transitional administration, not a final settlement, and betting on time more than it is a radical solution, while the question remains: Does this plan pave the way for a Palestinian state or establish management for a long-term conflict?
