Top US Officials Press Israeli PM Netanyahu on Second Phase of Gaza Ceasefire

Top US officials met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday and urged him to move into the second phase of the ceasefire in Gaza.

According to the Israeli Prime Minister's Office, Netanyahu discussed matters with US President Donald Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, and advisor Jared Kushner. Detailed information regarding the meeting has not been made public.

A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that efforts are underway to locate the remains of the last hostages held in Gaza and to demilitarize the area, as reported by US News.

While the US desires to advance the agreement reached under the Trump administration, Netanyahu is reportedly under pressure to wait until Hamas returns the remains of the hostages.

The opening of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt is considered the most significant indicator for the second phase of the ceasefire. Ali Shat, the head of Gaza's future government, claimed this crossing would open this week.

However, Israel has not formally confirmed this. Discussions on this matter are expected in a meeting scheduled for Sunday. Currently, the Gaza side of the border crossing is under the control of the Israeli military.