Asked whether the US realizes how “isolated” it has become because of its stance on Israel, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller ironically said that the US will “continue to lead” on the situation in Gaza. Miller also reiterated that they strongly do not support a ceasefire in Gaza.
During his daily press conference, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller faced pressing questions from a journalist about the US position on Israel’s attacks on Gaza.
“Do you realize how isolated you are?” the journalist asked Miller, referring to the US veto of a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and Washington’s statements that it was determined to send heavy weapons to Israel.
In response, Miller ironically stated that the United States would continue to “lead” on the situation in Gaza and that it was in contact with its partners.
‘WE DO NOT SUPPORT A CEASEFIRE’
Miller stated that the US supports a humanitarian pause in the fighting in Gaza but does not support a ceasefire:
“But it should not mean that we agree with all the countries in the region on the best way forward. Of course we don’t agree. Many countries are calling for a ceasefire. We have made it clear that we support a humanitarian pause in hostilities, but that a ceasefire would allow Hamas, which planned the October 7 attacks, to continue to rule Gaza and plan unacceptable attacks.”
‘IS THIS AMERICAN LEADERSHIP?’
To the journalist’s question, “Do you think the US is showing leadership right now?” Miller replied, “Absolutely. But that doesn’t mean we agree with every country.”
In response, the journalist said, “You don’t agree with any country right now, except maybe Israel. Right now, you don’t seem to be concerned that the rest of the world, except Israel, is angry with you, is unhappy with the Biden administration’s stance. Is this American leadership?” he asked.
“The United States will continue to try and remain engaged in this issue. Because it is in the interest of Israel, the Palestinian people, the security of the broader region, and the security of the United States.”
