Hamas has reiterated its commitment to reaching a deal as soon as possible in indirect talks on a Gaza ceasefire, which resumed in Qatar’s Doha on Friday. According to senior Hamas official Basem Naim, the new talks will focus on agreeing on a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.
The White House welcomed Israel’s decision to send another team of negotiators to Doha, with National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby calling it a “good step.” However, Kirby clarified that President Biden’s national security team is not planning to physically attend the talks, but will be involved throughout the process.
Kirby also addressed questions about Israel’s strikes on civilians in Gaza, stating that while Israel has significantly damaged Hamas’ military capabilities, the group remains a viable threat. He emphasized the importance of Hamas signing a new hostage deal to end the suffering of its people.
The White House reiterated its position that Hamas started the current conflict and can easily end it by signing the deal. Kirby also expressed support for taking actions to degrade the Houthis’ capabilities in Yemen, as long as they continue to threaten commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Israel.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/article-836013