Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya stated in an interview with the Associated Press that the organization will continue to work for the creation of an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. He emphasized that a five-year truce is necessary for this to happen, and in exchange, Hamas would disband its militant wing and become a political party. Despite recent attacks on October 7, al-Hayya said that Hamas does not regret these actions as they have brought attention to the Palestinian issue.
John Kirby, the National Security Council Strategic Communications Coordinator, reiterated the United States’ stance on Hamas during a press briefing aboard Air Force One. Kirby condemned Hamas as a terrorist organization and emphasized that leaders have the power to end the conflict immediately. He criticized Hamas for violating a ceasefire in place until October 6 and called for hostage releases as proof of their commitment to creating a peaceful solution. The US has maintained its support for Israel throughout the conflict and continues to call for peace negotiations between both sides.
