MWE Correspondent
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that he expects the second phase of a U.S.-backed ceasefire plan in Gaza to begin “in the coming days,” signaling cautious progress in efforts to stabilize the war-torn region.
His comments followed discussions with visiting German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, during which both leaders reflected on the outcomes of the first stage of the ceasefire and the path ahead.
Netanyahu said that the initial phase of the plan, aimed at halting hostilities and facilitating humanitarian access, had been successfully concluded. The next stage, he explained, will focus on dismantling Hamas’s military infrastructure while allowing for international monitoring and ensuring civilian safety. “The second phase is no less complex,” Netanyahu stated, emphasizing that security and stability in Gaza remain a top priority for Israel and its international partners.
The Israeli prime minister also stressed that the transition to this phase hinges on the cooperation of all parties, including the return of the remaining hostages, which is seen as a critical step before broader disarmament and reconstruction efforts can begin. Humanitarian agencies have warned that while ceasefires provide temporary relief, durable peace will require careful planning, international oversight, and coordination between Israeli, Palestinian, and global authorities.
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Chancellor Merz reiterated Germany’s support for Israel’s security while emphasizing the importance of adhering to international law and protecting civilians. He highlighted the need for a sustainable political solution alongside military measures, underscoring Berlin’s long-standing advocacy for a two-state framework in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.
Analysts note that the planned second phase comes after weeks of ongoing violence in Gaza, which has seen widespread destruction of infrastructure, displacement of civilians, and a humanitarian crisis. The upcoming phase is expected to include international observers to monitor compliance and support efforts to rebuild key services in the enclave.
Netanyahu is also planning consultations with U.S. officials to finalize details of the next stage, including the composition of any international stabilization force and mechanisms for monitoring ceasefire compliance. Observers say these discussions will be crucial in determining whether the ceasefire can transition from a temporary pause in hostilities to a long-term stabilization process.
