Netanyahu says Gaza ceasefire uncertain as UN vote looms

New details from an Israeli cabinet meeting reveal deep uncertainty over Gaza’s future a day before the UN Security Council is set to vote on a draft plan for the besieged territory.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told ministers he “did not know” how long the ceasefire would hold and stressed that Israel is “working to conclude Phase A” while awaiting the return of three bodies held by Hamas.

National Missions Minister Orit Strock reportedly pushed back, saying, “We did not go to war only to free hostages.” Netanyahu also noted that foreign forces remain “reluctant” to enter Gaza, signalling the difficulty of assembling the proposed stabilisation force.

Although the draft plan allows for up to 20,000 international troops, it is unclear which countries would participate. Israel has already ruled out Turkish involvement. When pressed on timing, Netanyahu said, “We cannot ignore our managing of a seven-front war … the amount of time left cannot be quantified.”