Israel and Hamas Reach a Cease-Fire

After eight days of bombing, airstrikes, and missile firings, Israel and Hamas reach a cease-fire, but not before 150 Palestinians and six Israelis are killed. Known as Operation “Pillar of Defense,” it comes almost five years after a longer Hamas-Israeli clash, also sparked by indiscriminate missile firings from Gaza into populated Israeli areas. During the fighting, Israel successfully tests the “Iron Dome” missile defense system. The cease fire is choreographed by the United States along with Egypt’s President Morsi, who plays a core role in helping the two sides end the fighting.