Sullivan: Netanyahu ready to reach a hostage deal; I’m aiming to close it this month

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “is ready to do a deal,” says US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on his 7th trip to Israel in his current role.

Sullivan makes the comments in response to a question during a Tel Aviv press conference about whether Netanyahu is stalling in the ongoing hostage negotiations to secure a deal when US President-elect Donald Trump enters office.

“No, I do not get that sense,” Sullivan responds.

Further boosting chances for a deal, Sullivan says Hamas has adapted its posture at the negotiating table following last month’s announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. The top Biden aide says the terror group is more isolated now amid the weakening of the Iranian-led axis against Israel.

“I got the sense today from the prime minister he’s ready to do a deal. And when I go to Doha and Cairo, my goal will be to put us in a position to be able to close this deal this month, not later.

“There is more optimism in the air, shall we say,” adds Sullivan.

“I wouldn’t be here today if I thought this thing was just waiting until after January 20,” Sullivan says.

“Israel did not start or seek this war,” he stresses during his opening remarks. “Hamas started this war.”

Sullivan highlights the importance of Israel’s military achievements in recent months, saying they contribute to the likelihood of a hostage release deal.

“Hezbollah can never again rebuild its terror infrastructure to threaten Israel, says Sullivan.

“Hamas’s leaders are gone, including the terror masterminds of October 7,” Sullivan continues.

“Now the Assad regime in Syria is gone.”

When US President Joe Biden said “Don’t,” Sullivan argues, “this is what he meant.”

“The balance of power in the Middle East has changed significantly,” Sullivan declares.

“Israel is stronger, Iran is weaker.”