After nearly two weeks of blistering attacks on the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip, there are encouraging signs that Israel is open to a more durable cease-fire deal brokered by Egypt and France.

After a deadly attack Tuesday on a United Nations school used as a sanctuary by Palestinian civilians, mounting international pressure prompted Israel to halt its attacks for three hours yesterday to allow food and medical supplies into the region. Although the fighting continued after the brief respite, Israel then agreed to send its emissaries to talks in Egypt today to see if a firm agreement to end the violence could be reached.

That modest opening presents the right opportunity for intensified international pressure to end the fighting through a U.N. agreement. The United States should join Egypt, France and other nations in continuing to press for a deal.

More than 600 Palestinians have been killed and 2,900 injured in this military campaign, nearly a third of them women and children. Seven Israeli soldiers and three civilians also have died, and Hamas continues to send rockets into southern Israel.

A cease-fire must be brokered long enough to work toward a resolution.

Indeed, Israel has the right to defend itself. But the citizens of Gaza have already paid a horrific price, with no electricity, running water and a lack of access to food and medical care.

A cease-fire agreement is the only hope for preserving the slightest chance for peace.