Rubio Warns International Recognition of Palestinian State May Embolden Hamas

TDT | Manama

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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that moves by Britain, France, and other U.S. allies to recognize a Palestinian state may inadvertently empower Hamas, rather than advance peace efforts.

"They're largely symbolic — they have really no impact whatsoever on bringing us any closer to a Palestinian state. The only impact they actually have is it makes Hamas feel more emboldened," Rubio said during a joint news conference in Jerusalem with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Rubio added that such international actions have, in fact, become obstacles to peace. He noted that Hamas has previously abandoned tacit agreements, often when encouraged by perceived international support.

Addressing his forthcoming trip to Britain alongside President Donald Trump, Rubio emphasized that he intends to raise these concerns directly with U.S. allies. "It's actually hurting the cause they think they're furthering," he said.

Rubio's visit comes a week ahead of a UN summit in New York focused on the recognition of a Palestinian state. The initiative, led by French President Emmanuel Macron, aims to address frustrations over Israel's nearly two-year offensive in Gaza and to bolster the Palestinian Authority as a counterbalance to Hamas.