The United States has exercised its veto power against a United Nations Security Council resolution concerning Gaza, which it deemed counterproductive and targeted at Israel. The U.S. government stated that it would not endorse any measure that fails to condemn Hamas, does not call for the disarmament of Hamas, draws false equivalence between Israel and Hamas, or disregards Israel's right to self-defense.
According to the U.S., "Hamas could end this brutal conflict immediately by laying down its arms and releasing all remaining hostages, including the remains of the four Americans they murdered." The statement criticized some members of the Security Council for refusing to acknowledge this reality and suggested that such resolutions undermine diplomatic efforts towards a ceasefire. It was argued that the resolution would have empowered Hamas by allowing them to continue misappropriating aid and threatening civilians.
The U.S. emphasized its commitment to working towards freeing all hostages and supporting aid delivery to Gaza without interference from Hamas. It also reaffirmed its stance with Israel at the UN, stating that "the United Nations must return to its original purpose—promoting peace and security—and stop these performative actions."
