Ambassador Dorothy Shea, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, addressed a UN Security Council briefing on the Middle East situation. In her remarks, Ambassador Shea placed responsibility for renewed hostilities squarely on Hamas. She stated that "the blame for the resumption of hostilities lies solely with Hamas," citing their refusal of proposals aimed at extending a ceasefire.
Shea emphasized that Hamas continues to hold hostages and use civilians as shields, saying, "It is the people of Gaza who will suffer further because of Hamas’s disregard for human life." She also responded to allegations of indiscriminate attacks by the IDF, asserting that Israel targets Hamas positions and condemning Hamas's use of civilian infrastructure for military purposes.
President Trump has taken a firm stance on this issue. According to Shea, he insists that "Hamas must release the hostages immediately or pay a high price," and she affirmed U.S. support for Israel's subsequent actions. The demand includes the release of 59 hostages and the bodies of four Americans killed by Hamas.
Ambassador Shea described acts committed by Hamas as brutal and highlighted their impact on peace efforts in the region. She pointed to Iran as a significant factor behind regional instability and violence.
In closing her main remarks, Shea noted an opportunity for Middle Eastern countries to foster stronger ties with Israel as a counterbalance to Iranian influence. The United States plans to work with Arab partners towards resolving conflicts and enhancing regional prosperity.
During additional remarks, Ambassador Shea commented on behavior observed during the meeting, particularly concerning decorum breaches while the Israeli representative was speaking.