"White House Responds to Trump's ‘Hell to Pay’ Threat to Hamas: Focus Is on Ceasefire for Hostage Release, Says Hamas Is ‘Weakened’"

On Tuesday’s broadcast of Fox News Channel’s Your World, White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby addressed President-Elect Donald Trump’s warning of “hell to pay” for Hamas if they fail to release hostages. Kirby clarified that he would not comment directly on the incoming administration's stance, emphasizing instead the current administration’s efforts to secure a ceasefire to facilitate the release of hostages and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Kirby explained, “What we have been doing and what we continue to do is try to get a ceasefire deal in place so that those hostages can come home and a surge of humanitarian assistance can come in.” He added that ongoing efforts, including National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan’s upcoming visit to Israel, are focused on engaging with Israeli officials to advance these objectives.

When asked by host Neil Cavuto about Trump’s remarks, Kirby noted Hamas’s increasing isolation and lack of support from groups like Hezbollah or nations such as Iran. He stated, “Now’s the time for the leaders of Hamas to come to the table, sign onto a deal, let’s get those hostages home, and let’s get the people of Gaza the humanitarian assistance that they so desperately need.” Kirby highlighted that Hamas has been significantly “weakened,” making it crucial for them to agree to negotiations.

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Trump appears to threaten Hamas

Trump's 'hell to pay' warning

Remarks by President Biden