Netanyahu Anticipates Imminent Start of Gaza Ceasefire's Second Phase

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire is expected to commence "very shortly." Speaking alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Netanyahu emphasized the challenges ahead, stating, "We finished the first part... And then we very shortly expect to move into the second phase, which is more difficult."

The upcoming phase aims to disarm Hamas and demilitarize Gaza. Netanyahu highlighted the complexity of this endeavor, drawing parallels to historical efforts: "There's a third phase, and that is to deradicalize Gaza, something that also people believed was impossible. But it was done in Germany, it was done in Japan, it's done in the Gulf states, can be done in Gaza too."

Netanyahu also confirmed plans to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump later this month to discuss "opportunities for peace" in the region. This meeting will mark their fourth since Trump's second term began in January.

The first phase of the U.S.-backed peace plan, initiated on October 10, halted fighting and facilitated exchanges of hostages and prisoners. The forthcoming phase involves deploying an international security force and other measures, though specifics remain under discussion.

Hamas has indicated openness to discussions on disarmament. Senior Hamas official Bassem Naim stated that the group is willing to consider "freezing or storing" its weapons as part of a ceasefire agreement, marking a potential step toward long-term peace.

Despite these developments, the ceasefire remains fragile, with both sides accusing each other of violations. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging all parties to adhere to the agreed terms to ensure lasting peace in the region.