The U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, has condemned Israel’s military actions in Gaza, accusing them of targeting schools, humanitarian workers, and civilians. Israel has defended its operations, stating they are aimed at Hamas militants using civilians as shields.
The criticism from Thomas-Greenfield marks a growing trend of U.S. disapproval as the conflict approaches its first anniversary. At a U.N. Security Council meeting, Thomas-Greenfield called the strikes affecting U.N. personnel and humanitarian workers preventable.
Despite Israel claiming to have targeted Hamas command centers, the strike on a former school serving as a U.N. shelter resulted in casualties, including U.N. staff. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an independent investigation into the incident.
Thomas-Greenfield emphasized the need for Israel to facilitate humanitarian operations in Palestinian territories and avoid civilian casualties. She also underscored the importance of a ceasefire agreement and urged all parties to make necessary compromises to end the conflict.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will travel to Egypt to discuss a proposed resolution. The U.S. called on all council members to influence Hamas leaders to accept the deal without delay.