The US administration has provided unequivocal support for Israel's decision to postpone the release of Palestinian prisoners in response to Hamas' violations of the hostage agreement. In its first official comment on the matter, issued Sunday night, the White House strongly affirmed Israel's right to respond to the organization's actions.
"Given Hamas' barbaric treatment of the hostages, including the hideous parade of the Bibas children's coffins through the streets of Gaza, Israel's decision to delay the release of prisoners is an appropriate response," White House National Security Council Spokesman Brian Hughes stated. "The President is prepared to support Israel in whatever course of action it chooses regarding Hamas."
Diplomatic sources indicate that despite the strong rhetoric, Washington remains interested in extending the ceasefire and securing the release of more hostages. These sources suggest the forceful messaging serves dual purposes: applying pressure on Hamas while expressing the administration's disgust at the organization's brutal conduct.
