Trump Aims for Phase Two of Gaza Ceasefire Plan Amid Regional Tensions
US President Donald Trump has expressed hope to advance quickly to phase two of the Gaza ceasefire plan, which depends on Hamas disarming. This next phase envisions the establishment of a technocratic Gaza government, the disarmament of Hamas, Israeli withdrawal, and reconstruction efforts.
Trump recently spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida, who asserted that Israel has fully complied with the ceasefire plan. The US indicated it could support another major strike on Iran if the country resumes developing ballistic missiles or nuclear weapons capabilities.
Since the ceasefire took effect, the Hamas-run health ministry reports that at least 414 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza. The Israeli military maintains that it has only fired in response to ceasefire violations and blames Hamas for the deaths of three Israeli soldiers.
Critics caution that Netanyahu may delay progressing the plan by insisting Hamas disarm before Israeli troop withdrawal. Conversely, Hamas officials argue disarmament should coincide with progress toward an independent Palestinian state.
Talks between the leaders also covered Syria and Hezbollah. Netanyahu emphasized a desire for a peaceful border with Syria, while Trump noted that Syria's new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is striving to perform well. In June, Trump signed an executive order ending US sanctions against Syria.
Iran dismissed reports regarding alternative strike sites as a psychological operation, warning it is prepared to defend itself and cautioning that renewed aggression would trigger harsher consequences for Israel.
