White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby has called Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas, 'the major obstacle' to achieving a cease-fire deal with Israel. Kirby stated that Sinwar has done nothing in recent weeks to prove that he is willing to move forward in good faith. Despite reports that a deal may not be reached before the end of President Biden's term, Kirby expressed that the administration still believes in the possibility of progress and will continue efforts. Kirby also reiterated the administration's position that Israel has the right to defend itself but emphasized the importance of conducting operations in a precise and discriminant manner to avoid harm to civilian infrastructure and life.