In a strong condemnation, the spokesman for the US National Security Council, John Kirby, criticized Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich on Friday for his comments that undercut a proposed ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Kirby labeled Smotrich's remarks as "dead wrong" and accused him of misleading the Israeli public.

Smotrich had referred to the ceasefire deal as a "surrender deal" in a post on social media platform X, urging Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to agree to any compromises. This came after President Joe Biden, along with the leaders of Qatar and Egypt, called for ceasefire talks to resume on August 15 in Doha or Cairo.

Kirby expressed concern over Smotrich's stance, stating that it disregarded the lives of Israeli hostages and American hostages as well as the national security interests of Israel. Kirby emphasized that President Biden was actively directing the US military to defend Israel against potential attacks from Iran or Iranian-backed terrorist groups.

The US administration has been engaged in diplomatic efforts to secure peace in the region, with Biden holding discussions with leaders such as King Abdullah of Jordan, Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar, and President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has also been in contact with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi regarding efforts to de-escalate tensions.

The joint statement released by the US, Egypt, and Qatar called for an immediate ceasefire to provide relief to Palestinians in Gaza and the hostages and their families. Kirby expressed disappointment in Smotrich for opposing a deal that could potentially jeopardize Israel's security.

The exchange between Kirby and Smotrich came amidst heightened tensions in the region following a series of assassinations in Lebanon and Iran. Israel has been linked to the killings of Fu'ad Shukr, the top military commander for Hezbollah, and Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas.

Kirby emphasized that Smotrich's comments ran counter to the joint statement and the support it received from other leaders and Israel itself. He urged Smotrich to reconsider his position, highlighting President Biden's strong commitment to defending Israel throughout his public service.

As ceasefire talks are set to resume, it remains to be seen how the Israeli delegation, confirmed to attend the negotiations, and Hamas will engage in the process. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict.

In conclusion, the US National Security Council's spokesman sharply criticized the Israeli Finance Minister for undermining the proposed ceasefire agreement. The spokesperson emphasized that supporting a deal that compromises Israel's security is not in line with President Biden's staunch defense of the country. The US continues to engage diplomatically, urging all parties involved to work towards a peaceful resolution.