HOPES for an end to the bloodshed in Gaza have once again been overshadowed by the grim reality on the ground. Hamas has reiterated that it is prepared to place its weapons in storage once Israel halts military operations and withdraws its troops as stipulated. Yet Israel is pressing ahead with military operations. Responsibility now rests squarely with the United States to push Israel to halt its military operations and adhere to the commitments it has undertaken. Diplomatic announcements alone cannot end the suffering of Gaza’s civilians unless they are backed by meaningful pressure Israel to implement the agreement in full.