Seeking Peace: Trump Urges Quick Progress on Gaza Ceasefire Plan

Tue Dec 30 2025 06:41:55 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Donald Trump expresses hope for rapid advancement into the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan, emphasizing disarmament from Hamas while warning of consequences for delays.

In a recent press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Donald Trump articulated his desire to swiftly progress to phase two of the Gaza peace initiative, contingent upon Hamas disarming. He indicated that failure to do so would lead to serious repercussions for the group. During the meeting, discussions also touched on tensions with Iran and the broader regional implications of the peace process in Gaza.

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 the possibility of supporting another major strike on Iran if it were to resume its ballistic missile or nuclear weapons programs.

Asked how quickly Hamas and Israel should move to phase two of the peace plan, Trump replied: As quickly as we can. But there has to be disarmament. He emphasized, If they don't disarm as agreed, they will face consequences.

Trump indicated that reconstruction efforts in Gaza could commence soon, as the peace plan, effective since October, involves establishing a technocratic government in the territory following Hamas disarmament and Israeli troop withdrawal.

However, critics worry that Netanyahu may delay the initiative, insisting on Hamas's disarmament before Israeli troops withdraw. The prime minister has faced accusations of not prioritizing a political solution for Palestinians.

Hamas officials have countered that full disarmament should coincide with progress towards an independent Palestinian state.

Trump reiterated confidence in Israel's commitment to the peace plan, stating, I'm not concerned about anything that Israel is doing, I'm concerned about what other people are doing or maybe aren't doing.

Since the ceasefire began, reports indicate that over 410 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli military actions in Gaza. The Israeli military claims such operations are defensive responses to ceasefire violations.

Discussions with Netanyahu also encompassed regional tensions, including issues relating to Iran and Syria. Trump expressed hope for a peaceful relationship between Israel and the new Syrian administration. I hope he's [Netanyahu] going to get along with Syria because the new president of Syria is working very hard to do a good job, he stated.