WASHINGTON — The United States vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution on Gaza Tuesday, blocking a measure it said was “counterproductive” and failed to hold Hamas accountable for ongoing violence.
“We will not support any measure that fails to condemn Hamas, does not call for Hamas to disarm and leave Gaza, draws a false equivalence between Israel and Hamas, or disregards Israel’s right to defend itself,” said Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a press statement issued shortly after the vote.
The resolution, backed by several council members, sought an immediate ceasefire and increased humanitarian access in Gaza, but did not directly name Hamas or demand the release of hostages still held in the territory.
“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,” Rubio said. “Many members of the Security Council still refuse to acknowledge this reality.”
Critics of the U.S. move said the veto undermines international efforts to end the fighting and protect civilians. But Rubio argued the resolution would have “only empowered Hamas to continue stealing aid and threatening civilians.”
The United States, he added, remains committed to securing the release of all hostages, ensuring aid delivery without Hamas interference, and preventing terrorist groups from reestablishing themselves in Gaza.
“The United Nations must return to its original purpose—promoting peace and security—and stop these performative actions,” he said.
