Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the second phase of the Gaza peace plan is nearing, emphasizing that Hamas must relinquish control of Gaza and disarm. Netanyahu expressed doubts about the effectiveness of a proposed multinational force to disarm Hamas, suggesting that Israel would ensure disarmament by any means necessary. Meanwhile, a senior Hamas official indicated openness to negotiations about storing or freezing weapons, but insisted on the creation of an independent Palestinian state as a precondition for full disarmament. Tensions remain over the implementation of ceasefire agreements, the flow of humanitarian aid, and the reopening of the Rafah border crossing, as both sides trade accusations of violations while sporadic violence continues.