National Security Advisor Sullivan and Israeli spokesman Mencer speak about the situation.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Israeli Government Spokesman David Mencer spoke separately this past week about what is hindering a hostage deal. Each said that Hamas is refusing to negotiate on the release of the hostages.
The U.S. national security advisor said, “Whatever Hamas is saying publicly, what they are communicating to the mediators is, ‘No, we will not do a cease-fire and hostage deal at this time.'”
Advisor Sullivan continued, “So what we need to do is get the rest of the world to continue to increase pressure on Hamas to come to the table, to do a deal in Gaza, because the Israeli government has said it’s prepared to take a temporary step in that direction.”
The Israeli spokesman said, “It is Hamas who keeps throwing in conditions that are unreasonable and impossible, and it is Hamas that has delayed the negotiations and the release of our people. Every moment that hostages are being held is a war crime and a humanitarian crime, and Hamas needs to release them now.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For U.S. officials as they seek to negotiate a ceasefire and hostage release with Hamas.
- For wisdom for President Biden and Advisor Sullivan as they endeavor to free the hostages.
Sources: Newsmax, Reuters
