Rubio sharply criticizes France’s recognition of Palestine, citing collapse of Gaza ceasefire negotiations
Renewed efforts to negotiate peace between Israel and Hamas have encountered significant setbacks following France’s decision to officially recognize the Palestinian State.
This move, announced last week, drew strong protests from the United States and other international actors.
U.S.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that this step by French President Emmanuel Macron disrupted scheduled diplomatic talks aimed at halting hostilities in Gaza.
In an interview with Eternal Word Television Network, Rubio emphasized that Macron’s unilateral recognition gave Hamas militants a signal that their actions might be rewarded, thereby significantly reducing the prospects for a ceasefire.
Rubio highlighted that this decision was made on the very day Macron announced his plans, which turned the peace process into a deadlock.
The diplomat also suggested that if he were in Hamas’s position, he would interpret this as a sign that resistance could be rewarded, discouraging any immediate return to negotiations.
Recall that on July 30, foreign ministers of 15 countries issued a joint declaration urging formal recognition of Palestine at the upcoming UN General Assembly in September.
Following Macron’s announcement of support for Palestinian recognition, U.S.
representatives criticized this move as reckless and irresponsible, potentially destabilizing the region further.
The background to this rising tension includes Israel’s military approval on August 8 of a plan to expand operations in Gaza, which has sparked international concern due to fears it could worsen the humanitarian crisis and endanger hostages.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed intentions to seek parliamentary backing for full annexation of Gaza, despite opposition from military officials and political figures who warn of possible security and diplomatic repercussions.