Gaza and Lebanon Truces Are Fragile, but All Sides May Keep Them Going
Briefly

Cease-fires in Gaza and Lebanon appear stable for the time being, even amidst significant strains. Analysts suggest that all parties involved—Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah—are motivated to avoid full-scale conflicts. Israel's troop presence in southern Lebanon and Hamas's failure to release a hostage have heightened tensions, yet both sides understand the dire consequences of escalating hostilities. The release of hostages and contingencies regarding displaced Palestinians suggest a fragile attempt to maintain peace, underscored by the mediation efforts of Qatar and assurances from international partners.
In Gaza, Hamas failed to release a female hostage whom Israel had hoped would be freed on Saturday, prompting Israel to delay the agreed return of displaced Palestinians.
Analysts said both Israel and its opponents had reasons to remain flexible and temporarily overlook the other's transgressions.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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