US: 'We have not yet received an official response from Hamas'

White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke to the American channel CBS. Speaking about the 'operation' in which Israel rescued hostages, Sullivan said, "The most effective, certain, and correct way to rescue all the hostages is to reach a comprehensive ceasefire and hostage deal that President Biden announced publicly a few days ago, which Israel has accepted and which we are now waiting for Hamas to respond to. If Hamas says 'yes' to this deal, a ceasefire will be established, the hostages will return home, humanitarian aid will increase, and better days will begin for the Palestinian people. Therefore, what we want to see is this deal go into effect, because it is the most certain way to get the hostages home."

"WE ARE WAITING FOR AN ANSWER"

Responding to questions regarding the ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel, Sullivan stated, "But the reality is that the whole world is waiting for Hamas to say yes. Because for everyone who has been calling for a ceasefire for months, now is the time. If Hamas says yes to the deal, a ceasefire could happen tomorrow, or even today. Therefore, from our perspective, the world needs to continue to reinforce this message quite clearly and strongly. We have not yet received an official response from Hamas. We are waiting for an answer. We are waiting for news from the mediators, Qatar and Egypt, and until we receive that answer, we will continue to reiterate the message to 'accept the deal'."

"I HAVE NOTHING TO SAY"

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded as follows to a question regarding whether he would meet with US President Joe Biden when he comes to address the US Congress:

"I have nothing to say. I am not in a position to announce such visits regarding the White House in advance. He is coming to address Congress. Biden always talks to Netanyahu; there is regular communication. We will continue to be in regular communication with him. If we have anything to share on this matter, we will certainly share it."

News Source: İHA