White House national security adviser John Kirby said the United States continues to work toward a diplomatic solution to the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, despite the escalation. He said Washington still sees a diplomatic solution as the best path to restoring security in northern Israel and returning people to their homes.
Asked about the likelihood of a full-scale war, Kirby said there were more productive ways to achieve peace than opening a second front on the border with Lebanon. He stressed that escalating the conflict would not be in the interest of either Israel or those citizens whom Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seeks to protect and return to their homes.
Kirby noted that tensions in the region have increased in recent days, making it difficult to reach a diplomatic solution. However, he said the United States does not see escalation as a win-win scenario and hopes for the possibility of a peaceful resolution.
As for the ceasefire and hostage negotiations with the Hamas terrorist group, Kirby admitted that there had been little progress in recent weeks.
“It appears that Mr. Sinwar is not at all prepared to continue to negotiate in good faith, especially after he killed six hostages in a tunnel-style execution. So he does not appear prepared to move forward with this,” a White House official said.
However, Kirby stressed that the United States is continuing its diplomatic efforts through engagement with Qatar, Egypt and Israel, and remains open to moving forward in negotiations despite current difficulties.
Earlier, Kursor reported whether Netanyahu wants a ceasefire agreement.
