Using the term 'genocide' is just Hamas 'propaganda,' US diplomat says

The interim US ambassador to the United Nations, Dorothy Shea, told the Security Council on Wednesday that use of the term 'genocide' to describe Israel's actions in Gaza is nothing more than "propaganda" fueled by Hamas.

"The representative of Israel has addressed allegations of genocide made by some in this room. I am also compelled to speak on this. These accusations are politically motivated and categorically false. They are part of a deliberate, cynical propaganda campaign as Hamas attempts to win symbolic victories to compensate for total defeat in war," Shea said.

"The United States refutes these allegations entirely. America fully supports Israel's right to defend itself. Israel has taken numerous measures to limit harm to civilians and to address humanitarian needs. The loss of civilian life in Gaza is tragic, but the responsibility for this rests with Hamas, which could also stop the fighting today by agreeing to a cease fire already accepted by Israel."

None of the ceasefire agreements agreed to by Israel or the US have included a permanent end to the war, which Hamas has insisted on.