The U.S. has sharply criticized recent comments made by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich regarding the ongoing Gaza ceasefire negotiations. National Security Council's Communications Director, John Kirby, condemned Smotrich's claims that the proposed truce is a "dangerous trap" as both "outrageous and absurd." Kirby emphasized that such rhetoric not only misrepresents the situation but also endangers the lives of hostages and contradicts Israel's own security interests.
Smotrich had previously stated that a ceasefire would allow Hamas to regroup, potentially leading to further violence against Israelis. However, the U.S. argues that the deal, which has been brokered with the help of Qatar and Egypt, secures Israel's national security and brings the country closer to achieving its military objectives, including the safe return of hostages.
As Israel prepares to send a delegation to finalize the agreement, the tension between the Israeli government's factions and their international allies is evident.