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Key Points
- Netanyahu says phase two of the Gaza peace plan is close, but he will speak to Donald Trump over unresolved issues.
- These issues include the demilitarising of Gaza and whether an international security force will be deployed.
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz says phase two of peace plan “must come now”.
According to Gaza’s health ministry, Israeli attacks since the onset of the ceasefire in October have resulted in at least 373 Palestinian deaths and 970 injuries. On the Israeli side, officials report that three soldiers have perished due to militant actions.
The final hostages to be released are linked to an Israeli police officer who was killed on October 7, 2023.
Despite the ceasefire, the militant group has managed to regain its foothold across the remainder of Gaza.
In response, a multinational coordination center has been established in Israel. However, progress has been sluggish, with officials indicating that the absence of deadlines has led to stagnation in advancing the plan.
German official Merz expressed willingness to aid in Gaza’s reconstruction. However, Germany awaits the outcome of Netanyahu’s discussions with Trump and clarity on Washington’s stance before committing to its contribution. Merz emphasized that “phase two must come now.”
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu stated, “We believe there’s a path to advance a broader peace with the Arab states, and a path also to establish a workable peace with our Palestinian neighbors.” He reaffirmed Israel’s unwavering stance on maintaining security control over the occupied West Bank.
What about plans to annex the occupied West Bank?
“We believe there’s a path to advance a broader peace with the Arab states, and a path also to establish a workable peace with our Palestinian neighbours,” Netanyahu said, asserting Israel would always insist on security control of the occupied West Bank.
