Netanyahu signals quick transition to next stage of Gaza ceasefire
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Photo: Getty Images)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the second phase of the US plan to end the war in Gaza is very close, according to Reuters.
Speaking to journalists alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said that later this month, he will hold important talks with US President Donald Trump on how to implement the second phase of the plan.
In November, the Prime Minister’s office announced that Trump had invited Netanyahu to the White House soon, but the exact date of the visit has not yet been set.
Netanyahu said he will discuss with Trump how to end Hamas’s control in Gaza.
A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has been in place since October, although both sides have repeatedly accused each other of violating the truce.
Netanyahu emphasized the importance of ensuring that Hamas not only adheres to the ceasefire but also fulfills its obligations under the disarmament and demilitarization plan for Gaza.
US peace plan for Gaza
Reuters reports that Israel retained control over 53% of Gaza under the first phase of Trump’s plan, which focused on the release of hostages held by militants in Gaza and Palestinians detained by Israel.
Under the plan, the second phase requires Israel to withdraw further, as a transitional authority will be established in Gaza, multinational security forces deployed, Hamas disarmed, and reconstruction initiated.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Germany is ready to assist in Gaza’s reconstruction but will await Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump and clarity on Washington’s next steps.
Netanyahu also said he will discuss with Trump opportunities for peace, likely referring to US efforts to establish formal relations between Israel and Arab and Muslim states.
Peace agreement between Israel and Hamas
As reported, US President Donald Trump is preparing to announce the second phase of the Gaza settlement plan and introduce a new governance structure for the enclave. These initiatives could be unveiled before Christmas.
On October 8, Trump stated that Israel and Hamas, following negotiations in Egypt, had agreed to the first phase of his proposed peace plan.
Two days later, the ceasefire took effect. Israel withdrew its forces to a buffer zone around Gaza, and Palestinians began returning to their homes.
On October 13, the leaders of the US, Egypt, and Turkey signed an agreement in Sharm El-Sheikh to end the war in Gaza, acting as mediators between Israel and Hamas.
Under the agreement, Hamas committed to releasing all hostages held since 2023 and to returning to Israel the bodies of any prisoners who had died.
