In a bold editorial stance, The Jerusalem Post urges Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reject phase two of US President Donald Trump’s Gaza plan until Hamas fully disarms. This call comes amid ongoing clashes in northern Gaza and Hamas’s firm refusal to give up its weapons, highlighting tensions in the fragile ceasefire declared in late September 2025.
Ongoing Skirmishes Undermine Ceasefire Hopes
Daily fights between Israeli forces and Hamas militants continue to rock the Gaza Strip, especially around the Yellow Line buffer zone. On December 7, 2025, the Israel Defense Forces reported killing three terrorists who crossed the line in two separate incidents.
These clashes show the ceasefire is not holding. Hamas is strengthening its hold on areas Israel left after the September agreement. Experts say this buildup threatens long-term peace efforts.
The situation grew worse on December 3, 2025, when militants from Hamas and Islamic Jihad moved a body bag thought to hold an Israeli hostage’s remains in Beit Lahia. This act fueled outrage and calls for stronger action.
Israeli officials worry that without full disarmament, Hamas could launch more attacks. Recent reports from the region note rising casualties on both sides, with no clear end in sight.
Key Details of Trump’s 20-Point Gaza Plan
President Trump unveiled his 20-point plan at a White House event in late September 2025, aiming to end the Israel-Hamas conflict and rebuild Gaza. The plan includes steps for hostage release, disarmament, and setting up a new government.
Phase one focused on a ceasefire and returning hostages. It led to some releases but left many issues open. Now, phase two calls for disarming Hamas, creating a multinational security force, and starting reconstruction.
The plan also sets up an International Stabilization Force to oversee security. Trump plans to announce a “Board of Peace” on December 15, 2025, to manage governance and funding.
Here is a quick overview of the plan’s main phases:
| Phase | Key Goals | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Phase One | Ceasefire and hostage release | Completed in late September 2025 |
| Phase Two | Hamas disarmament and security force deployment | Set to start mid-December 2025 |
| Phase Three | Reconstruction and new Palestinian Authority handover | Expected in 2026 |
This structure draws from UN Security Council Resolution 2803, passed in November 2025, which backs Trump’s vision for a demilitarized Gaza.
Arab leaders have mixed views. Some back the plan for its promise of stability, while others criticize it for giving Israel too much control.
Trump ties the plan to broader Middle East deals, like expanding the Abraham Accords. Yet, progress stalls as Hamas digs in.
Hamas Leaders Vow to Keep Weapons
Hamas officials have made it clear they will not disarm. On December 7, 2025, Khaled Mashaal, a top Hamas figure, spoke at a conference in Istanbul. He called the group’s weapons a “right to defend” and the “pride of the nation.”
This stance directly challenges phase two of the plan. Mashaal survived an Israeli assassination attempt in Doha earlier in September 2025, which hardened his position.
Hamas still holds bodies of Israeli victims, including slain policeman Ran Gvili. This refusal adds to the deadlock.
Analysts point out that Hamas controls much of Gaza despite Israeli pullbacks. Without disarmament, the group could rebuild its military strength.
Recent events, like the body bag transport, show Hamas’s ongoing operations. They use these acts to rally support and defy international pressure.
Mounting Pressure on Netanyahu from Allies
Prime Minister Netanyahu faces tough choices. Trump, a close ally, pushes for the plan’s next steps. US officials expect Israel to join the Board of Peace and support the stabilization force.
Yet, domestic voices in Israel demand caution. The Jerusalem Post editorial warns that moving forward without Hamas disarmament risks Israel’s security.
Netanyahu has hinted at military options if diplomacy fails. In October 2025, he said disarmament would happen “the easy way or the hard way.”
Qatari mediators add to the pressure, urging all sides to comply. But with Hamas refusing, Israel may hold firm.
Public opinion in Israel leans toward strong action. Polls from late 2025 show most Israelis want Hamas fully neutralized before any deal advances.
Why Israel Should Hold Firm on Disarmament
The editorial argues Netanyahu must defy even his allies in Washington. Rushing into phase two could let Hamas keep power and weapons, leading to more violence.
Key reasons include:
- Hamas’s history of attacks, like the October 7, 2023, assault that started the war.
- The need for a reformed Palestinian Authority without “pay-for-slay” policies.
- Risks to Israeli lives if external forces fail to secure Gaza.
Experts suggest alternatives, such as stronger UN involvement or direct talks with moderate Palestinians. But without disarmament, peace remains elusive.
This stance ties into broader 2025 events, like UN approvals and stalled talks in Egypt. Israel’s firm position could reshape the region’s future.
As tensions rise, readers should share this article and comment below on what steps Israel should take next for lasting peace.
