NSC Communications Coordinator John Kirby responds to progressive pushback against U.S. aid to Israel on ‘FOX News Sunday.’ White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby on Sunday blamed Hamas for ending the temporary cease-fire agreement with Israel. Kirby revealed that the United States believes eight or nine Americans are still held hostage by Hamas in Gaza, including one woman whose condition and whereabouts are unknown. Despite efforts to gain visibility on the situation, Kirby acknowledged the challenges faced in securing the release of these hostages. The United States is determined to reinstate the cease-fire to ensure the safety of the remaining hostages.
Kirby emphasized that Hamas is solely responsible for the cease-fire collapse, as they refused to add more women and children to the list of prisoners to be released. The White House is working tirelessly to bring the situation back on track and secure the release of the hostages. The previous weeklong cease-fire facilitated the release of dozens of Israeli and foreign hostages, but Israel has now withdrawn its negotiators and is committed to removing Hamas from power in Gaza.
During the interview, Kirby addressed concerns raised by Democratic members of Congress, including progressive Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who criticized U.S. military assistance to Israel, citing a violation of human rights in Gaza. In response, Kirby defended the military aid, stating that it helps Israel combat the genocidal threat posed by Hamas. He reminded viewers of the devastating events of October 7th, where 1,200 Israelis, including children, were brutally killed by Hamas. Kirby emphasized the United States’ commitment to helping Israel eliminate this threat.
Acknowledging the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Kirby highlighted that Israeli forces have made efforts to spare civilians, despite Hamas militants using them as shields. However, he acknowledged that thousands of civilians have still been killed or wounded, and one million people have been internally displaced in Gaza. The United States worked hard to secure the seven-day pause to allow for the release of hostages and the delivery of essential supplies, such as food, water, medicine, and fuel.
Kirby also mentioned Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s discussions with Israeli counterparts regarding the need to reform and revitalize the Palestinian Authority to meet the aspirations and needs of the Palestinian people. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed Israel’s desire not to occupy or control Gaza after the conflict ends. Kirby echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of the Palestinian people having a voice and governance that accurately represents their aspirations.
Responding to concerns about aid, Kirby denied that the U.S. was placing “red lines” on assistance to Israel, emphasizing that Israel is a sovereign nation. He also mentioned that Israel has ordered more evacuations in and around Gaza’s second-largest city, Khan Younis, as the military’s offensive focuses on the southern half of the territory, where Hamas leaders are believed to be hiding.
The article concludes by highlighting the escalating fears of a wider conflict, as a U.S. warship and multiple commercial ships were attacked in the Red Sea. The Pentagon is closely monitoring the situation.
