While some headlines cheer about peace between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, the reality is, it’s more of a cease fire…and even that doesn’t mean much. Reports are that Hamas is systematically going through the region and publicly executing anyone they deem as collaborators with Israel. Additionally, two Israeli soldiers have been killed as well as committing other direct attacks. Israel is reported to be sponsoring “local gangs” to eliminate any remaining Hamas elements and has bombed areas with Hamas elements that are leading the continued fighting. None of this should be a surprise. Hamas has no real intention of simply giving up; they want to remain in power regardless of the impact to the citizens of Gaza. Until the people of Gaza take matters into their own hands, all Israel can do is reduce the organizational structure and supplies that Hamas has available to them. Still, we can expect a lull in fighting over the next several months and more humanitarian aid getting through to those that need it. Peace, however, will be more difficult to achieve.