Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly set to strongly oppose any U.S. initiative to advance to the second phase of a Gaza cease-fire plan during his meeting with President Trump. Netanyahu intends to seek firm guarantees from Trump and his Middle East envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, that Hamas will be disarmed and Gaza demilitarized before further steps are considered. A significant point of contention is Hamas's failure to return the body of Israeli Master Sgt. Ran Gvili, believed to be the last victim of the October 7, 2023, attack whose remains are still in Gaza. Gvili's mother and brother are with Netanyahu in Florida, and Israeli officials hope Trump will meet with them.
The proposed second phase involves establishing an International Stabilization Force (ISF) to police Gaza. Netanyahu is expected to seek detailed information on the ISF's operational plans. While the U.S. and Israel envision the ISF having a primary security role, including disarming militant groups, potential troop-contributing nations are concerned this mandate could turn the force into an "occupation force." Hamas has expressed willingness to discuss "freezing or storing" its weapons but maintains a right to armed resistance as long as Israeli occupation persists. One proposed U.S. plan involves offering financial incentives for weapons, similar to a previously suggested "buy-back" program. Initial governance of Gaza would be under a "Board of Peace" chaired by Trump, with a Palestinian committee later managing daily affairs. The Board of Peace would also oversee Gaza's reconstruction under a UN mandate. Separately, discussions may also address reports of Iran developing biological and chemical warheads for ballistic missiles targeting Israel.
