As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to meet President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, Israel is planning a renewed military offensive in Gaza as part of “Phase 2” of its conflict with Hamas, while also considering potential strikes on Iran, Israel’s Channel 13 reported. The meeting comes amid growing skepticism in Israel over the U.S. proposal for a multinational force in Gaza and concerns about Iran’s military buildup.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
JERUSALEM — With Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu set to meet President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago later this month, Israel is preparing for a renewed military offensive in Gaza as part of the next phase of its conflict with Hamas. The plans, reported by Israel’s Channel 13, reflect growing doubts in Jerusalem about the feasibility of a U.S.-led multinational force to stabilize the region, as well as ongoing concerns about the remaining Hamas hostages, including Ran Gvili, the last captive held since the October 7, 2023 attacks.
Phase 2: A Return to Combat in Gaza?
According to Israeli officials, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are likely to re-enter Gaza beyond the current “Yellow Line” demarcation, signaling a shift from the current ceasefire to a more aggressive military posture. This move comes as Netanyahu’s government questions whether the U.S. can successfully assemble a multinational force to demilitarize Gaza and prevent Hamas from regrouping.
The skepticism is fueled by delays in securing the release of Ran Gvili, a hostage killed on October 7, 2023, while serving in Israel’s Police Special Patrol Unit. His continued captivity—even in death—has heightened tensions in Israel, where many believe military pressure is the only way to secure the return of all hostages and dismantle Hamas.
“Major decisions on next steps are expected to wait until Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump,” a source close to the prime minister told reporters, emphasizing that Israel is not waiting indefinitely for diplomatic solutions.
Progress in Phase 1—but Challenges Ahead
While Phase 1 of the Gaza ceasefire has seen some progress, including expanded humanitarian aid, the return of hostage remains, and partial IDF withdrawals, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff noted in a Saturday post that key challenges remain. During a meeting in Miami with Egyptian, Qatari, and Turkish representatives, officials reviewed Phase 1 achievements and prepared for Phase 2, which includes:
- Establishing a unified Gazan authority to protect civilians and maintain public order.
- Regional economic integration, including trade facilitation, infrastructure projects, and energy cooperation.
Witkoff also reaffirmed the Trump administration’s commitment to a 20-point peace plan, with further consultations planned in the coming weeks. However, Israel remains cautious, particularly given the lack of a clear path to Gaza’s demilitarization and the risk of Hamas resurgence.
Iran in the Crosshairs: Netanyahu’s Briefing for Trump
Beyond Gaza, Netanyahu’s visit will also focus on Iran, which Israeli officials believe is rebuilding its ballistic missile program and nuclear infrastructure after U.S. airstrikes in June, NBC News reported. Israel views Iran’s missile arsenal as a direct threat, one that could destabilize the Middle East and endanger U.S. interests.
Netanyahu is expected to present Trump with a range of military options, including:
- Israel acting unilaterally against Iranian targets.
- Joint U.S.-Israel operations.
- A U.S.-led strike on Iran’s nuclear and missile facilities.
The Trump administration has publicly warned Iran against rebuilding its military capabilities, with President Trump stating that the U.S. could strike again if Tehran resumes its nuclear or missile programs without a diplomatic agreement.
A Fragile Ceasefire and the Road Ahead
The Netanyahu-Trump meeting, expected around December 29, will be critical in determining Israel’s next steps—both in Gaza and Iran. With Phase 2 of the Gaza conflict looming and Iran’s military buildup accelerating, the U.S.-Israel alliance faces high-stakes decisions.
“The question is not whether Israel will act, but how—and with whom,” a defense analyst in Tel Aviv said. “Netanyahu will push for a firm U.S. commitment, but Trump’s priorities may not align perfectly with Israel’s.”
As diplomatic and military strategies collide, the outcome of the Mar-a-Lago meeting could reshape the Middle East’s future—and determine whether war or peace prevails in the months ahead.
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