Netanyahu Says Second Phase of U.S. Gaza Plan Nearing but Key Issues Remain

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the second phase of the U.S.-backed plan to end the war in Gaza is approaching, though major issues still need to be resolved before progress can be made. Speaking in Jerusalem alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Netanyahu confirmed he will meet U.S. President Donald Trump at the end of the month to discuss the next steps, including how to ensure Hamas is disarmed and Gaza becomes fully demilitarized.

Netanyahu emphasized that despite a ceasefire now in its second month, both Israel and Hamas continue to accuse each other of violating the agreement. He added that it was crucial for Hamas not only to uphold the ceasefire but to follow through on what he described as their commitment to disarmament under Washington’s proposal. Under phase one of the plan, Israel maintained control of 53% of Gaza, while hostages held by militants and Palestinian detainees in Israeli custody were exchanged. The final remaining hostage is that of an Israeli police officer killed during Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack. “We’ll get him out,” Netanyahu said.

The militant group has regained strength in areas of Gaza outside Israeli control since the ceasefire began in October. Phase two of the U.S. plan envisions Israel pulling back further, the establishment of a transitional authority, the deployment of a multinational security force, and the start of reconstruction efforts. However, officials say progress has stalled, with no clear deadlines. Netanyahu noted unresolved questions around which international forces may participate and what alternatives exist if no consensus is reached.

Chancellor Merz said Germany is prepared to help rebuild Gaza but will wait for clarity after Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump, stressing that phase two “must come now.” Israeli airstrikes have continued during the ceasefire, which Israel says are aimed at preventing attacks. Gaza health authorities report 373 Palestinians have been killed, while three Israeli soldiers have died in militant operations.

Netanyahu also referenced discussions with Trump about expanding regional peace efforts, including potential normalization with Arab and Muslim states. Though Trump has pledged that Israel will not annex the West Bank, Netanyahu said the issue of “political annexation” remains under discussion, reiterating Israel’s stance that it must retain security control of the territory.