Trump administration says phase two of Gaza ceasefire has begun

The United States has announced the start of the second phase of a Gaza ceasefire plan, focusing on demilitarization, technocratic governance, and reconstruction. This follows an agreement by Palestinian factions, including Hamas and Islamic Jihad, to support a committee of technocrats to govern the enclave, a deal mediated by Egypt. A former Palestinian deputy minister is expected to lead the committee, which will be overseen by a former UN Middle East peace coordinator. While Hamas has expressed willingness to cede governing power, it insists on maintaining its arms, citing the ongoing Israeli occupation, which remains a point of contention.