Phase Two of Gaza Ceasefire Likely to Begin in Early January

Phase two of the Gaza ceasefire agreement is expected to begin in early January, according to Israeli media reports citing U.S. officials. Israel’s Channel 13 reported on Wednesday that Washington has conveyed the timeline to Israel and regional mediators.

Quoting an unnamed senior Israeli official, Channel 13 said U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff informed Israeli authorities and mediators that preparations are underway for the second phase of the agreement to move forward shortly after the New Year.

According to Middle East Monitor, Channel 13 added that Israeli officials are concerned U.S. President Donald Trump may push ahead with the next phase of the deal even if Gaza’s disarmament is not addressed to Israel’s satisfaction.

Israel and the Palestinian resistance group Hamas agreed to a two-phase ceasefire on October 9, following mediation by Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye, with U.S. sponsorship. However, Gaza’s Health Ministry reports that more than 400 Palestinians have been killed since then due to alleged Israeli ceasefire violations and delays in implementing phase two.

Since October 2023, Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has killed more than 71,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured over 171,000 others, according to Gaza health authorities, figures Israel disputes. International calls continue for a permanent ceasefire and the protection of civilians.