Overview
- Netanyahu warned the coming phase will be as difficult as the first even as the cease-fire has held since October 10.
- Israeli officials say all living hostages have been freed and the remains of the dead returned, with the exception of Ran Gvili.
- The plan is backed by the United States and is intended to reshape Gaza’s security and governance arrangements.
- Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz made his first visit to Israel since taking office and reaffirmed Berlin’s commitment to Israel’s security.
- Netanyahu confirmed a late-December meeting in Washington with President Donald Trump to discuss potential regional peace steps.