Netanyahu to Discuss Gaza Second Phase and West Bank Annexation with Trump

Netanyahu to Discuss Gaza Second Phase and West Bank Annexation with Trump

On 7 December 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that he will meet with US President Donald Trump later this month to discuss the second phase of the Gaza plan as well as the West Bank annexation. This follows the first phase of the plan, which included prisoner releases and preliminary ceasefire agreements.

Second Phase of the Gaza Plan

According to Netanyahu, the second phase will focus on disarming Hamas, demilitarizing Gaza, and deploying an international peacekeeping force. Temporary administrative arrangements and international monitoring of the region’s security are also expected. Netanyahu emphasized that this phase is more sensitive and complex than the first and will require close international cooperation.

West Bank Annexation

The meeting will also address the possibility of annexing certain areas in the West Bank. Netanyahu has previously indicated his intention to assert Israeli sovereignty over these areas. Discussions with Trump are expected to consider the legal, political, and diplomatic implications, while also accounting for international reactions and regional security concerns.

International Response and Challenges

Some European nations, notably Germany, have expressed conditional support and offered to assist in Gaza’s reconstruction. Meanwhile, Hamas has voiced objections to demilitarization, and Palestinian leadership strongly opposes any annexation plans. These challenges could affect the success of the plan.

Potential Outcomes

Experts suggest that if the second phase proceeds smoothly and the international force is deployed, it could offer a fresh start for Gaza, including prisoner returns, infrastructure rebuilding, and economic recovery. However, disagreements over force responsibilities or annexation measures could lead to renewed tensions, protests, and humanitarian challenges.

Conclusion

The upcoming Netanyahu-Trump meeting on Gaza’s second phase and West Bank annexation marks a critical turning point in Middle East peace efforts. While the plan could foster stability and reconstruction, it also carries significant political, legal, and humanitarian complexities. Decisions in the coming weeks could have profound implications for Gaza, the West Bank, and the broader region.