In the Latest News from the Middle East, the United States has announced the launch of the second phase of its plan to end the Gaza war, even though many promises from the first phase have not yet been completed. The announcement has sparked fresh debate as fighting, political tensions, and humanitarian concerns continue in the region.
The Gaza conflict remains one of the biggest global issues today and continues to dominate Breaking News and Daily news highlights around the world.
First Phase Still Incomplete
The first phase of the US-backed Gaza plan was meant to bring calm to the region. It included a full ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, reopening border crossings, and addressing hostage-related issues. However, these goals have not been fully met.
Israeli airstrikes have continued in Gaza, killing hundreds of people and damaging already destroyed areas. One Israeli hostage has still not been recovered, and Israel has delayed reopening Gaza’s border crossing with Egypt. These problems have weakened trust in the peace process and raised doubts about moving forward.
Despite these setbacks, the United States and its mediator partners believe delaying the second phase would only make the situation worse.
What the Second Phase Aims to Do
The second phase focuses on bigger and more difficult goals. According to US officials, it aims to bring long-term stability to Gaza through political and security changes.
President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, said the new phase will create a temporary Palestinian technocratic administration in Gaza. This group will be made up of professionals, not political leaders, and will manage Gaza during a transition period.
The plan also includes:
- Beginning the disarmament of militant groups
- Starting large-scale reconstruction of Gaza
- Preparing for an international peacekeeping presence
These steps are considered essential to ending the Israel-Gaza war and reducing the wider Middle East crisis.
New Palestinian Committee Announced
Mediators Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey confirmed that a 15-member Palestinian committee will lead Gaza’s temporary administration. The group will be headed by Ali Shaath, a former deputy minister linked to the Palestinian Authority.
The committee includes experts from business groups, non-government organizations, and public services. Its goal is to manage daily life in Gaza and prepare the ground for rebuilding.
Shaath said the committee’s first priority will be humanitarian aid, including housing for displaced families who are currently living in tents among the rubble. He also suggested fast cleanup methods to clear destroyed buildings and create space for reconstruction.
However, a United Nations report warns that fully rebuilding Gaza could take until 2040 or even longer, showing how deep the damage really is.
The “Board of Peace” and Global Role
Under the plan, the Palestinian committee will work under an international body called the “Board of Peace.” This board is expected to oversee Gaza during the transition period.
Former UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov is likely to represent the Board of Peace on the ground. Invitations to join the board have already been sent to selected international figures.
Another major announcement related to the Board of Peace is expected at the upcoming World Economic Forum in Davos, showing how deeply global diplomacy is now involved in the Gaza issue.
Disarmament Remains the Biggest Challenge
One of the hardest parts of the second phase is demilitarization. The plan calls for the disarmament of all armed groups that are not officially authorized.
Hamas has agreed to hand over civilian governance to the new committee but has refused to give up its weapons. The group says it will only disarm after the creation of a full Palestinian state.
US officials admit this is a major obstacle. They say Israel remains doubtful that Hamas will ever disarm and question whether lasting peace is possible. Still, Washington believes the new Palestinian committee can become a peaceful alternative to Hamas rule.
Discussions are expected on possible amnesty programs if militants agree to disarm.
Palestinian and Regional Reactions
The Palestinian Authority in the West Bank has welcomed the US move. Palestinian Vice President Hussein Al-Sheikh said Gaza’s institutions should be linked with those in the West Bank, following the principle of “one system, one law, and one legitimate weapon.”
Meanwhile, Hamas leaders and other Palestinian factions are holding talks in Cairo. Egyptian officials say these discussions will now focus mainly on disarmament.
Hamas and its rival group Fatah have both approved the list of committee members, a rare moment of agreement in Palestinian politics.
What Lies Ahead
The US decision to move forward shows urgency, but many risks remain. Continued violence, lack of trust, and deep political divisions could still derail the plan.
Still, supporters believe that without action, the humanitarian crisis will worsen and the Israel-Gaza conflict will drag on for years.
As this story continues to develop, it remains at the center of Breaking News, Latest News, and Daily news highlights worldwide.
For millions affected by the war, the hope is simple: peace, safety, and a chance to rebuild life again.
