The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas militants, which paused 15 months of brutal warfare, is facing uncertainty as the first phase is set to end on Saturday with no clear path forward.
The negotiations for the second phase, which were supposed to begin weeks ago, have not started, leading to a series of disputes during the first phase.
Hamas has released most of the living hostages from the initial phase in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, but around 60 captives remain, with Israel delaying the release of some prisoners over treatment concerns.
The second phase, considered the most challenging, involves crucial decisions for Israel regarding the hostages' safe return and dealing with Hamas.
Efforts are being made to extend the first phase to allow for more negotiations, but Egypt, a key mediator, is insisting on starting talks for the second phase before considering an extension.
The completion of Phase 1 has been marred by mutual mistrust, with both sides accusing each other of violating the ceasefire terms.
U.S. President Donald Trump, who initially took credit for the ceasefire, has sent mixed signals about the deal, proposing controversial ideas that have been met with widespread rejection.
The future of the ceasefire remains uncertain as key decisions and negotiations lie ahead, with the fate of the remaining hostages and the long-term peace in the region hanging in the balance.
For more updates on the Israel-Hamas conflict, visit AP's war coverage.
