Jake Sullivan

President Biden affirmed full support for Israel after defending it from a large Iranian missile attack, warning of severe consequences.

Israel targets Hezbollah terrorists to prevent attacks, while Hezbollah indiscriminately targets Israeli civilians, yet some criticize Israel for escalating the conflict.

Sullivan said the Friday strike served justice to Aqil, who was wanted by the US for two 1983 Beirut truck bombings that killed more than 300 people at the American embassy and a US Marines barracks.

Sullivan stressed the administration’s "unwavering commitment to bringing the Americans home."

In a meeting with US officials, Yair Lapid spoke on the urgency of a solution on the Lebanon front and securing Hamas negotiations for the release of hostages.

The two leaders will meet in Washington next week, where Netanyahu will also address the US Congress.

Hamas claims that Israel is thwarting the agreement as Shin Bet head Ronen Bar heads to Cairo for continued talks.

"I urge the Administration to immediately cease this failed operation before further catastrophe occurs and consider alternative means of land and air-based humanitarian aid delivery."

Biden is expected to secure the help of other G7 countries, France, Germany, Italy, Great Britain, Canada, and Japan, which have already backed the agreement, to pressure Hamas to accept the deal.

Sullivan said there are elements of what Hamas put forward that the White House doesn't think are consistent with what was laid out in the Security Council resolution.