Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on December 7, 2025, that the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan, focused on the hostage and prisoner exchange, is nearing completion. Netanyahu stated that the final living Israeli hostage is expected to be released imminently, marking a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to stabilize the region.

While celebrating this achievement, Netanyahu emphasized that the second phase of the plan must ensure full Hamas disarmament and Gaza demilitarization before any further negotiations. The Prime Minister stressed that meaningful progress in security and stability is impossible without removing Hamas’ military capabilities, framing the next stage as essential for lasting peace.

Netanyahu also signaled coordination with the United States, noting that discussions with President Donald Trump later this month will focus on advancing the second phase, leveraging international support to enforce demilitarization and secure the safety of Israeli citizens. His announcement highlights a dual approach of achieving immediate humanitarian gains through hostage recovery while maintaining firm security prerequisites to prevent future escalations.

The announcement has been welcomed by pro-Israel advocates, who view the near completion of the first phase as a tangible success in a long-standing conflict, while underscoring that the ultimate goal of a stable Gaza requires decisive action against militant infrastructure. Netanyahu’s strategy emphasizes that diplomacy and security must go hand in hand, setting clear conditions before any broader peace talks can proceed.