U.S. Administration Pushes for Swift Transition to Second Phase of Gaza Deal

The U.S. administration is accelerating efforts to move into the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, viewing current conditions as suitable for advancing the process despite the absence of an official announcement.

Reports circulating in Israeli media suggest that a direct transition to the second phase of the deal may be imminent, though no formal confirmation has been issued by U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff or other senior American officials.

The administration of President Donald Trump has for some time pressed to move beyond the first phase of the agreement, arguing that it has already run its course. U.S. officials believe the current ceasefire remains largely stable, despite limited violations by both sides, and see this relative calm as a basis for progressing to the next stage.

U.S. plans for the second phase are expected to include several parallel measures, such as the deployment of an international force, the formation of a presidential council to oversee governance in Gaza during a transitional period, and steps aimed at disarming Hamas.

This simultaneous approach remains a key point of contention between Washington and the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reflecting broader disagreements over the timing and structure of post-conflict arrangements in the Gaza Strip.