Jerusalem, December 7, 2025: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that he anticipates the launch of the second phase of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan following the return of the last hostage. Netanyahu emphasized that while the initiative is promising, it will face significant challenges in implementation.
Joint Press Conference with German Chancellor
During a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Netanyahu revealed plans to discuss with Trump strategies to end Hamas' rule in Gaza. "Executing phase two will not be easy," Netanyahu acknowledged, highlighting the complexities of political negotiations and security arrangements in the region.
Prospects for Peace with Palestinians
Netanyahu expressed optimism about achieving peace with the Palestinians, stating that while the potential annexation of the West Bank remains under discussion, the current status quo is expected to remain for the foreseeable future. He emphasized that dialogue and careful planning are essential to ensure stability for both sides.
Chancellor Merz's Official Visit
Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in his first official visit to Israel as Germany's leader, confirmed that discussions regarding a potential visit of Netanyahu to Germany are not currently being considered. "We have not discussed the possibility of Prime Minister Netanyahu visiting Germany. There is no reason to address this at this moment," Merz told the press.
Significance of the Visit
Earlier in the day, Netanyahu hosted Chancellor Merz in his Jerusalem office. Despite lasting less than 24 hours, the visit carried high diplomatic significance, coming seven months after the Gaza conflict and the ceasefire established on October 10. The timing was notably later than previous German leaders’ visits, reflecting the region's evolving political context.
Next Steps for Phase Two
The second phase of the Trump plan aims to stabilize Gaza further and develop a framework for long-term peace. Netanyahu stressed the importance of coordinating with international partners, particularly the United States and Germany, to ensure that the next steps produce tangible results while maintaining security for Israelis and Palestinians.
Regional and Global Implications
This phase of the plan could influence broader Middle Eastern diplomacy, potentially paving the way for enhanced cooperation between Israel and its international partners. Analysts note that successful implementation may improve economic conditions in Gaza and reduce regional tensions.
Conclusion
Netanyahu’s statements highlight Israel’s commitment to pursuing peace and stability in Gaza. With international support and careful strategic planning, the second phase of the Trump peace plan could reshape the political landscape in the region in the coming months.