The war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has entered its 12th month with little hope for a ceasefire or the release of Israeli hostages. Hamas is demanding a complete Israeli withdrawal, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists troops must remain along the Gaza-Egypt border. The United States, Qatar, and Egypt have been mediating in an effort to bring about a ceasefire, but the chances appear slim. The war has resulted in the deaths of at least 40,939 people, mostly women and children, according to authorities in Gaza. UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini called for a ceasefire on the anniversary of the war.