Depends on each situation. They're an inherently unstable situation unless they lead to a peace deal or other more permanent resolution.
- Sometimes they're a precursor to a peace deal or a stage setter for negotiations
- Sometimes they're a way to buy time to stockpile arms or supplies
- Sometimes they're for religious/cultural reasons (typically shared reasons like a holiday or to bury the dead)
- Sometimes they're deceptive so as to mislead an opponent with false intentions