Press media emphasize that despite multiple Israeli attacks over Gaza and more than 15,000 deaths, mostly women and children, Tel Aviv did not achieve its objective of eliminating Hamas, which – they point out – maintains its capacity to manage complex negotiations, impose compliance with the cease-fire on other armed groups and orchestrate the release of hostages without incidents.

In this regard, for political observers, the Israeli invasion is unlikely to put an end to Hamas, while international pressure for a peace agreement is growing rapidly.

On the other hand, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces strong pressure to bring hostages back home, and may find it difficult to resume hostilities if there is a chance of further prisoner exchanges with Hamas.

However, Israel opposed a cease-fire in Gaza today at the United Nations (UN), arguing that it will only serve to prop up Hamas activities.

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