WASHINGTON: A ceasefire in Gaza would only help Hamas, the White House said Tuesday, as Israel wages an air campaign against the group that carried out an unprecedented attack on the country earlier this month.

“A ceasefire right now really only benefits Hamas,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told journalists.

Gaza aid in doubt as Israel, Hamas deny border ceasefire

Thousands of people have been killed on both sides since Hamas stormed across the border on October 7, executing civilians and seizing hostages, with Israel retaliating with relentless bombardment of the Gaza Strip.