CEP Senior Director Dr. Hans-Jakob Schindler writes: "A complete ceasefire is unlikely to be reached; a reduction in fighting is more realistic. Hamas is fighting to continue existing as a power factor in Gaza and for the survival of its leadership. Netanyahu’s government has three, sometimes contradictory, goals: destroy Hamas’ infrastructure in Gaza, free the hostages and ensure the government’s continued existence. It will be difficult to reconcile these positions so that a general pause is possible."