"Stalled Cease-Fire Talks and Hostage Releases: Gaza's Prospects Before Ramadan"

Cease-fire talks between Hamas and Israel have ended without an agreement, making it unlikely that a break in the violence will occur before the start of Ramadan. Despite Israel signing off on some of Hamas' terms, the group has increased its demands, including insisting on a permanent cease-fire with continued control of Gaza. The U.S. and Israel have focused on a phased agreement involving the exchange of hostages for a cease-fire, but with the start of Ramadan approaching, the possibility of a deal by then looks less likely.