White House Optimistic Amid Middle East Tensions

The White House does not consider an escalation of conflict inevitable after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. The U.S. is actively pursuing a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation, says national security spokesperson John Kirby.

The White House announced on Wednesday that it doesn't see an escalation of conflict as inevitable following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Efforts are ongoing to secure a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

At a daily briefing, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby indicated it was too soon to determine if the recent developments in the Middle East would impact the prospects of a ceasefire agreement.

U.S. President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation, Kirby confirmed. (Reporting By Andrea Shalal and Matt Spetalnick; Editing by Chris Reese)