Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that the second phase of a United States-backed plan to conclude the conflict in Gaza is approaching. However, he emphasised that several critical matters must still be settled before implementation.
Key Hurdles in the Path to Peace
Speaking alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Jerusalem, Netanyahu outlined the unresolved elements. A primary sticking point is the potential deployment of a multinational security force within the Gaza Strip. The Prime Minister posed crucial questions about the plan's logistics, asking about the proposed timeline, the nature of the incoming forces, and the alternatives if an international force is not agreed upon.
According to the established framework, the second phase would see Israel pulling back further as a transitional authority is set up. This phase is contingent on Hamas being disarmed, the deployment of the security force, and the commencement of large-scale reconstruction in the devastated enclave.
Hamas Signals Flexibility on Weapons
In a potentially significant development, a senior Hamas official offered a formula to break the deadlock on one of the most contentious issues – the group's arsenal. Bassem Naim, a member of Hamas's political bureau, stated on Sunday that the faction is prepared to discuss "freezing or storing" its weapons as part of the ceasefire agreement with Israel.
Naim expressed a willingness for a "comprehensive approach" to prevent further escalation. This statement comes as the ceasefire, now in its second month, remains fragile with both sides trading accusations of violations.
International Coordination and Domestic Stance
Netanyahu confirmed that he will hold discussions with US President Donald Trump by the end of the month to work on ensuring the second phase is realised. The Prime Minister's office had noted in November that Trump extended an invitation for a White House visit "in the near future."
On the international front, German Chancellor Merz declared Germany's readiness to assist in rebuilding Gaza. However, Berlin will await clarity from Netanyahu's meeting with Trump and a clearer understanding of Washington's commitments before deciding on its own contribution. Merz stressed that the second phase "must come now."
Separately, addressing his political future amid an ongoing corruption trial, Netanyahu asserted he would not retire from politics even if granted a presidential pardon.
Despite the establishment of a multinational coordination centre in Israel, efforts to advance the peace plan have reportedly stalled. Officials involved acknowledge there are no fixed deadlines within the plan, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the next steps for Gaza and the wider region.
