Blinken Calls on UN Security Council to Condemn States Arming, Funding, and Training Hamas and Other Terrorists

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during a meeting of the UN Security Council on the Middle East situation, called on the attendees to condemn states that are arming, funding, and training Hamas and other terrorists to prevent the escalation of the conflict.

"Let us not forget that among the over 1,400 individuals killed by Hamas on October 7th were citizens from over 30 UN member states, including many at this very table. At least 33 American citizens were among the victims. Each of us has a stake; each of us has a responsibility in countering terrorism," he stated.

Blinken reminded those present that the primary responsibility of the Security Council is to uphold international peace and security, and proposed the signing of a resolution aimed at resolving existing conflicts and preventing their escalation.

"We all recognize the right, even the obligation, of states to defend themselves against terrorism. So, we must unequivocally condemn Hamas's barbaric terrorist attack on Israel - babies pierced with bullets; youths gleefully hunted and shot; individuals decapitated; families burned alive in each other's arms; parents executed in front of their children; and so many taken hostage in Gaza," the U.S. Secretary of State noted.

He stressed that it is no longer a secret that Iran has been supporting Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthi rebels, and other groups that continue to launch attacks against Israel.

"The United States does not seek conflict with Iran. We do not want this war to escalate. But if Iran or its proxies attack U.S. personnel anywhere, make no mistake: we will defend our people, we will defend our security - swiftly and decisively," Blinken declared.

The U.S. Secretary of State emphasized that the world is at a crossroads, with one path offered by Hamas, leading to death, destruction, suffering, darkness, and another path leading to more significant peace, greater stability, more opportunities, further normalization, and integration.

Blinken added that the United States is ready to work with anyone willing to create a more peaceful and secure future.

Recall that Israel's Ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, called on UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to resign after he attempted to explain and justify the reasons for the Hamas attack on Israel.