Trump Pushes for Rapid Phase Two of Gaza Ceasefire Amid Tensions

Tue Dec 30 2025 05:23:23 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a recent press conference, Donald Trump emphasized the urgency of reaching the second phase of the Gaza peace plan while warning Hamas of severe consequences if it does not comply with disarmament.

During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida, President Donald Trump expressed hope for a swift transition to the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. He stated that Hamas must disarm to avoid dire repercussions and reinforced Israel's adherence to the peace plan. The peace process, initiated in October, envisions a technocratic government in Gaza following disarmament and Israeli troop withdrawal, but skepticism remains regarding the pace and commitment to achieving these goals.

Donald Trump said he hoped to reach phase two of the Gaza peace plan very quickly, as he warned Hamas would have hell to pay if it did not disarm quickly.

The US president, whose 20-point peace plan requires the militant group to disarm, made the comments as he met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida for talks on Monday.

During a press conference with Netanyahu after their meeting, Trump said Israel had lived up to the plan 100%, despite continuing attacks by its military in Gaza.

The US president also mentioned that his country could support another major strike on Iran if it resumes rebuilding its ballistic missile or nuclear weapons programs.

Asked how quickly Hamas and Israel should move to phase two of the peace plan, Trump noted: As quickly as we can. But there has to be disarmament. He stressed that Hamas must comply with the disarmament agreement and that if they do not, there will be hell to pay for them.

The Gaza peace plan came into effect in October. Under the second phase, a technocratic government would be established in the economically devastated territory, Hamas would disarm, and Israeli troops would withdraw. The reconstruction of Gaza would then commence. However, critics suggest that Netanyahu might seek to delay this process.

Many Hamas officials insist that full disarmament should coincide with progress toward establishing an independent Palestinian state.

Since the ceasefire began, at least 414 Palestinians have reportedly been killed by the Israeli military in Gaza according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Trump also indicated that the US would take further military action if Iran is found to be developing nuclear capabilities in other sites.

Reflecting on regional concerns, discussions between Trump and Netanyahu also touched upon Syria's new leadership, emphasizing a peaceful border with the region.