According to Gaza’s health ministry, Israeli attacks have resulted in the deaths of at least 373 Palestinians and injuries to 970 others since the ceasefire began in October. Israeli officials have reported the deaths of three Israeli soldiers at the hands of militants.

The final remaining hostages to be returned include those of an Israeli police officer who was killed on October 7, 2023.

Since the ceasefire took effect, the militant group has regrouped and regained its presence throughout Gaza.

In Israel, a multinational coordination center has been set up; however, the initiative lacks specific deadlines, and officials have noted that progress has been sluggish.

Merz stated that Germany is prepared to assist in Gaza’s reconstruction but plans to wait for Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump. Berlin seeks clarity on Washington’s commitments before deciding on its contributions, emphasizing that the next phase “must come now.”

Merz said that Germany was willing to help rebuild Gaza but would wait for Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump, and for clarity on what Washington was prepared to do, before Berlin decides what it would contribute but that phase two “must come now”.

What about plans to annex the occupied West Bank?

“We believe there’s a path to advance a broader peace with the Arab states, and a path also to establish a workable peace with our Palestinian neighbours,” Netanyahu said, asserting Israel would always insist on security control of the occupied West Bank.