NSC spokesman John Kirby dodges questions on the Biden administration's role in the abrupt reversal of the plea deal offered to three 9/11 terrorists. Amid ongoing efforts to broker a cease-fire in the Israel-Gaza conflict, Kirby emphasizes the importance of ending the war through a negotiated settlement.
In an interview on "Fox News Sunday," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby declined to answer questions regarding the Biden administration's involvement in the abrupt reversal of the plea deal offered to three 9/11 terrorists last week. When asked if President Biden had intervened to prevent the suspects from facing the death penalty, Kirby repeatedly stated that the decision was made by the convening authority in the military chain of command.
White House Denies Involvement in 9/11 Terrorists' Plea Deal Reversal
Amid growing outrage over the initial agreement, the White House has denied any involvement, claiming that President Biden and the White House played no role in the process. However, Kirby's evasive responses have raised skepticism about the administration's transparency.
Kirby also addressed the ongoing efforts to broker a cease-fire in the Israel-Gaza conflict, which has intensified since Hamas launched an attack on October 7, resulting in over 1,200 casualties and the kidnapping of hundreds more.
White House Denies Involvement in 9/11 Terrorists' Plea Deal Reversal
"Number one, we still believe a cease-fire deal is the best way to bring this war to an end. It's also, we believe, very possible. We still believe the gaps are narrow enough to close," Kirby said.
Kirby emphasized the United States' commitment to ensuring Israel's ability to defend itself while preventing the conflict from escalating into a broader regional war. He noted that Deputy National Security Adviser Jonathan Finer had expressed urgency about a cease-fire deal due to the potential for external factors to disrupt the talks.
White House Denies Involvement in 9/11 Terrorists' Plea Deal Reversal
Concerns have emerged that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may not be fully committed to pursuing a cease-fire. Finer declined to comment on private discussions between Biden and Netanyahu about the issue but acknowledged that the two leaders have a long-standing relationship that allows for candid conversations.
Despite the challenges, Kirby reiterated the United States' firm belief in the necessity and urgency of a cease-fire deal. He emphasized the need to prevent outside influences from disrupting the talks and called for a swift resolution to end the hostilities and secure the hostages' release.
White House Denies Involvement in 9/11 Terrorists' Plea Deal Reversal
The White House's denial of involvement in the 9/11 terrorists' plea deal reversal and its ongoing efforts to broker a cease-fire in the Israel-Gaza conflict remain under scrutiny. As the situation continues to evolve, further developments and official statements are expected.
