Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that the second phase of a U.S.-led plan to end the war in Gaza is approaching, though several key issues still need resolution. Speaking in Jerusalem alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Netanyahu highlighted discussions on deploying a multinational security force as a critical component of the plan.
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Netanyahu said he would hold talks with U.S. President Donald Trump later this month to ensure the second phase moves forward. The first phase of the plan involved Israel retaining control of 53% of Gaza, the release of hostages held by Hamas, and the return of Palestinians detained by Israel.
A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has entered its second month, though both sides accuse each other of violations. Netanyahu stressed that Hamas must not only maintain the ceasefire but also follow through on commitments to disarm and demilitarize Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the second phase of a US plan to end the war in Gaza was close, but cautioned several key issues still needed to be resolved https://t.co/w7Y3JeybZv pic.twitter.com/15zuaDmZgO
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According to the plan, Israel would further withdraw in the second phase while a transitional authority and a multinational security force are established. Germany has expressed willingness to assist in Gaza’s reconstruction but is awaiting clarity from Washington before finalising contributions, with Chancellor Merz stating that “phase two must come now.”
Netanyahu also discussed broader regional issues, including potential peace with Arab states and the status of the West Bank. He confirmed that Israel would insist on security control in the West Bank, while noting that political annexation remains under discussion despite U.S. assurances to Muslim leaders that no annexation would occur.
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Since the ceasefire began, Israel has carried out airstrikes in Gaza, citing security reasons, while Gaza’s health ministry reports 373 Palestinian fatalities. Netanyahu said that the remaining hostages, including an Israeli police officer killed on October 7, 2023, would eventually be released. The upcoming talks with Trump are expected to address the timeline, international security forces, and the broader peace framework for Gaza and the region.