The United States has unveiled a 21-point Middle East peace initiative during the U.N. General Assembly, with officials hopeful of progress on the Gaza conflict in the coming days. U.S. President Donald Trump presented the plan to leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt, aiming to balance Israeli concerns with those of regional neighbors. Special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed confidence that a breakthrough could soon be announced.
The Gaza war, now nearing its second year, has drawn widespread condemnation for its devastating toll. According to local health officials, more than 65,000 Palestinians have been killed, while famine-like conditions grip parts of the enclave. The war began after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Israeli authorities say roughly 48 hostages remain in captivity, including 20 believed to be alive.
Despite mounting international pressure, Israel continues its military operations in Gaza City. Witnesses reported tanks advancing near Al-Quds Hospital and closer to Al Shifa, the territory’s largest medical facility. The Palestinian Red Crescent confirmed damage to an oxygen station, while Israeli forces claimed Hamas militants were firing from hospital compounds — a claim Hamas denies.
The conflict has also spilled into the West Bank, where Israeli forces and settlers killed two Palestinians in separate incidents near Jenin and Ramallah. Meanwhile, airstrikes across Gaza on Wednesday killed at least 50 people, including many sheltering near a market.
Diplomatic efforts are running in parallel. European and Arab states are discussing a stabilization force for post-war Gaza, hoping to align their plan with Washington’s. Still, with heavy fighting, hunger, and displacement worsening conditions, many Palestinians remain trapped in Gaza City under grave risk.
The White House continues to back Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is scheduled to meet Trump and address the U.N. this week, even as Western powers such as France and Britain move toward recognizing a Palestinian state.