LONDON: The Muslim World League on Saturday welcomed the announcement of the start of the second phase of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza, including the declaration of a Peace Council and the formation of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza.

The MWL praised efforts to end the war in Gaza and advance stability and peace in the Palestinian territories.

The organization commended Trump’s efforts, citing his commitment to the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and his pledge to prevent the annexation of any part of the occupied West Bank.

MWL Secretary-General Mohammed Al-Issa stressed the urgent need for full adherence to the requirements of the second phase of the peace plan, and called for a serious and firm response to any violations.

Al-Issa also highlighted the importance of ensuring sufficient access for humanitarian aid to Gaza and supporting the return of the Palestinian Authority to its responsibilities in the territory.

He said these efforts are essential to ending cycles of violence and conflict, and to establishing a lasting, comprehensive and just peace in line with international resolutions.

The second phase of the peace plan builds on an initial ceasefire, and includes the establishment of a US-led board to oversee Gaza’s post-war administration.

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair was given a key role on Friday, while a US officer has been appointed to lead a nascent security force.

The announcement follows a meeting in Cairo of a Palestinian committee of technocrats tasked with governing Gaza, which was attended by Jared Kushner, Trump’s senior adviser on the Middle East.

The plan is also intended to promote economic development in Gaza, which has suffered extensive damage during more than two years of Israeli bombardment.