Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he "very shortly" expects to move into the second phase of the US-led peace plan for the Gaza Strip.
Netanyahu made the remark on Sunday, restating his stance that Hamas must be disarmed in the second phase.
Israeli media report that US President Donald Trump's administration wants to announce the transition to the second phase by the end of the year.
But Hamas has come out against disarming itself and the Israeli military has been continuing attacks on Gaza.
A ceasefire agreement took effect in October to halt hostilities between Israeli forces and Hamas in Gaza based on the first phase of the peace plan.
The second phase is supposed to begin if Hamas hands over the body of the last remaining deceased hostage.

Quiz 1:
According to the article, when does US President Donald Trump's administration want to announce the transition to the second phase of the peace plan for Gaza?
A. In January 2026
B. By the end of 2025
C. In March 2026
D. In July 2025

Quiz 2:
What is a ceasefire agreement in Gaza based on according to the article?
A. The first phase of the peace plan
B. The second phase of the peace plan
C. A temporary halt to Israeli military attacks on Gaza
D. The disarmament of Hamas

Quiz 3:
For the second phase of the peace plan for Gaza to begin, what must Hamas do according to the article?
A. Disarm itself
B. Stop all hostilities with Israeli forces
C. Hand over the body of the last remaining deceased hostage
D. Announce its support for the US-led peace plan