Netanyahu claims second phase of Gaza plan near as he confirms meeting with Trump
JERUSALEM, ISRAEL: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday, December 7, that he will meet President Donald Trump later this month, announcing that the second phase of the US president’s Gaza plan is now “close.”
Speaking alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Netanyahu said that the upcoming talks would focus on “opportunities for peace” and ending H***s’s rule in the enclave.
Talks advance on governance and hostage deal
Netanyahu said negotiations on the next stage of Trump’s proposal aimed at ending the two-year war in Gaza have been ongoing.
The wide-ranging plan reportedly includes the release of remaining Israeli hostages, the creation of an interim technocratic Palestinian administration in Gaza, and oversight by an international “board of peace” supported by a multinational security force.
He said the first phase of the plan was “about to be completed,” adding that discussions with Trump at the end of the month would be “very important” to ensuring progress on phase two.
Since the ceasefire began on October 10, 20 living hostages and 27 bodies have reportedly been returned in exchange for roughly 2,000 Palestinian detainees. One hostage’s body is still believed to be in Gaza.
Friedrich Merz says no current plans for Netanyahu's visit
During the joint press conference, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz dismissed speculation about a potential Netanyahu visit to Berlin.
“We did not discuss the possibility,” Merz said. “There is no reason to discuss this at the moment.”
He added that an invitation could be considered “if time permits,” but the matter was not on the agenda for either side.
Netanyahu currently faces an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity connected to the Gaza conflict, a factor that complicates international travel and diplomatic engagement.
Trump’s second‑phase Gaza peace deal is key
As the US works to advance its multi-stage strategy, Netanyahu’s expected meeting with Trump underscores a major moment in efforts to shape Gaza’s future.
With the first phase nearing completion and negotiations intensifying, the coming talks may determine whether the parties can move toward a sustainable political framework.
Trump announced on October 9 that Israel and H***s have agreed to the first phase of a peace deal, marking a breakthrough toward ending the war in Gaza.
Phase two of the plan reportedly includes stabilizing Gaza, facilitating humanitarian aid, and setting the groundwork for long-term political and economic reconstruction.
