Netanyahu: Second Phase of Gaza Peace Plan Imminent, but Doubts International Force Can Disarm Hamas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the second phase of the US-sponsored peace plan to end the war in Gaza is imminent, but essential issues, particularly the disarmament of Hamas, still need to be resolved.

Key Elements of Phase Two (Trump Plan):

• Withdrawal and Governance: Phase two requires Israel to withdraw from additional areas in Gaza, establish a transitional authority, and deploy an international security force.

• Disarmament and Reconstruction: The plan also includes the disarmament of Hamas and the start of Gaza's reconstruction.

Netanyahu's Stance and Skepticism:

• Trump Meeting: Netanyahu announced important discussions with President Trump on December 29 to ensure the execution of Phase Two.

• Disarmament Doubts: Netanyahu voiced skepticism about the ability of the planned multinational force to forcibly disarm Hamas, questioning if foreign troops would be willing to undertake the task.

• Israeli Commitment: He reiterated that Israel will ensure disarmament occurs, "the easy way or the hard way, but ultimately it will be done."

Hamas's Position:

• Flexibility on Arms: Senior Hamas official Basem Naim told the Associated Press in Qatar that the movement is open to talks about "freezing or storing" its weapons arsenal as a possible approach to the challenging issue.

• Violations: Two months into the ceasefire, both sides still exchange accusations of near-daily violations. Over 370 Palestinians and three Israeli soldiers have been killed since the truce began.

• Missing Remains: Search operations continue for the remains of the last missing Israeli hostage, Sgt. Ran Gvili, for repatriation under the ceasefire terms.