Brief Summary
This press briefing covers a range of topics including international agreements, US sanctions, the situation in Gaza, visa revocations, and the conflict in Ukraine. Key points include the signing of a peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, the lifting of US sanctions on Syria, ongoing efforts to deliver aid to Gaza, the revocation of visas for members of the Bob Villain band, and the US stance on the conflict in Ukraine.
- Peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda.
- Lifting of US sanctions on Syria.
- Ongoing efforts to deliver aid to Gaza.
- Revocation of visas for members of the Bob Villain band.
- US stance on the conflict in Ukraine.
Opening Remarks: Peace Agreements, Sanctions, and Consular Services
President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are advancing a vision of peace through strength and diplomacy. A peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Rwanda was signed on June 27th, marking the end of a 30-year war in the Great Lakes region. The US, along with the African Union, Qatar, and Togo, will support the implementation of this deal. Secretary Rubio will also host Quad counterparts from Australia, India, and Japan to discuss a free and open Indo-Pacific, maritime security, and resilient supply chains. President Trump will issue an executive order lifting US sanctions on Syria, with the aim of fostering safety and prosperity for the Syrian people. The Middle East task force concluded its activities on June 27th, with US embassies and consulates continuing to provide consular services and security alerts to US citizens affected by the conflict, including assisted departure flights from Israel.
Questions on Israeli Investigation and Aid to Gaza
The administration will not rethink allocating money to GHF despite reports of an Israeli military investigation into possible war crimes against Palestinian civilians near Gaza aid distribution sites. Hamas is responsible for the current situation in Gaza, having initiated attacks and continuing to interfere with aid deliveries. The administration recognizes that Gaza remains a war zone, with efforts underway to distribute aid through the GHF, which has provided approximately 51 million meals. The administration decries the loss of life and violence, and continues to work towards a ceasefire, acknowledging potential disruptions to aid efforts by those who have made life difficult for Gazans for decades.
Follow-up on Ceasefire Aspirations and Israeli Strikes in Gaza
Despite Israeli strikes in Gaza City and the ongoing conflict, the president's aspirations for a ceasefire remain. The administration honors the ongoing investigations into the strikes and awaits factual findings. The president maintains a strong relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and remains committed to changing the environment in the region. The distribution of 51 million meals in Gaza is part of new ideas and regional partnerships to address the situation, with recognition that the current state cannot continue. The US continues to support Israel as an ally while working to ease suffering and achieve a ceasefire.
Visa Revocation Policy and Syria Sanctions
The State Department's decision to publicly revoke the US visas for the members of the Bob Villain band due to their hateful tirade and glorification of violence at Glastonbury aligns with the policy that foreigners who promote violence and hatred are not welcome in the country. This decision reflects the US's right to decide who can enter the country, based on standards of being helpful and respectful. President Trump will sign an executive order to terminate the US sanctions program on Syria to promote stability and peace, while maintaining sanctions on individuals and entities associated with Assad, human rights abuses, drug trafficking, chemical weapons, ISIS, and Iranian proxies. The goal is to support a stable, united, and peaceful Syria.
Free Expression, Hungary Pride Parade, and Nigeria Attacks
The revocation of the Bob Villain band's visas is based on national security concerns and standards for who is allowed into the country, not on limiting free expression. While the administration supports free expression, it also prioritizes law and order and respect for American citizens. The US has no comment on Hungary's attempt to ban a pride parade, stating that countries make their own choices. Regarding attacks on Christian villages by Islamic militants in Nigeria, the State Department is looking into the matter and will provide an update on Wednesday.
Ukraine Conflict and NATO
Despite increased Russian air attacks on Ukraine, President Trump believes Putin is misguided and wants to settle the conflict. Trump has offered to help negotiate a settlement between Russia and Ukraine. The administration remains committed to supporting Ukraine and stopping the carnage. The US supports NATO and its role as a deterrent, with increased defense spending being a positive development encouraged by President Trump.
Syria, Iran, and Closing Remarks
The State Department cannot comment on potential meetings regarding Syria. Regarding Iran, the US message to the Iranian people is that every country is in the hands of its own people. President Trump desires Iran to move into the normal order with countries and is willing to do whatever is necessary to ensure peace in the region. Due to the president's schedule, the briefing is concluded.
