For many Israelis, the ceasefire offers a brief respite from relentless conflict. The return of hostages has provided closure for families and a temporary sense of relief. However, the broader objectives of dismantling Hamas and ensuring lasting security continue to elude Israel.

Biden says Israel is to negotiate the next phase of the agreement over the next six months towards a permanent end to the war

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Joe Biden spoke Sunday about efforts to reach a ceasefire and hostage release deal in the Israel-Hamas war.

The deal, mediated by the United States, offered a glimmer of hope in a conflict that has taken an immense human toll.

Under the deal, bitterly opposed by some cabinet hardliners, a six-week ceasefire is due to take effect on Sunday, with the first of a series of hostage-for-prisoner exchanges that could open the way to ending the 15-month war in Gaza.

Deadly Israel airstrikes struck Gaza on Jan. 16 after a ceasefire and hostage release deal was announced. Israel’s government had not yet approved the deal. Gaza’s Civil Defense spokesman said at least 113 people had been killed,