US Condemns Saudi-Led Initiative for Palestinian Statehood
The Trump administration has voiced strong disapproval of a Saudi Arabia-led initiative aimed at establishing a Palestinian state. Recently, the United States, along with nine other nations, voted against this motion, while 12 countries abstained, leading to the General Assembly’s approval of the “New York Declaration” with 142 votes in favor.
US UN counselor Morgan Ortagus criticized the resolution, stating, “Make no mistake—this resolution is a gift for Hamas.” She emphasized that the United States would not participate in what she characterized as an affront to the victims of the October 7 attack, asserting that the US will continue its genuine efforts towards achieving lasting peace.
In her remarks, she expressed concern that the adoption of the resolution would only reward Hamas, further complicating diplomatic efforts aimed at alleviating the suffering in Gaza.
Trump Disapproves of Macron’s Palestinian Summit Approach
A White House official highlighted that, as the president expressed, recognizing a Palestinian state would hinder efforts to secure the release of hostages. They voiced strong opposition to rewarding Hamas in any manner.
The declaration, initially proposed during a UN conference in July, outlines a so-called “irreversible” path to Palestinian statehood. The text condemns Hamas for the attack on October 7, demands the release of hostages, and calls for Hamas to relinquish control over Gaza.
French Foreign Ministry officials welcomed the outcome, dubbing it a “historic vote” that underscores the international community’s commitment to fostering an “ambitious roadmap for peace and security in the region.”
Rubio Denies Visas to Palestinian Leaders
Additionally, the US has denied visas to certain Palestinian leaders who were expected to attend the General Assembly, citing their past support for terrorism.
The declaration underscores the need for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the establishment of a viable, sovereign Palestinian state, as President Emmanuel Macron is slated to attend a follow-up meeting later this month in New York.
Israeli UN Ambassador Danny Danon dismissed the vote as mere theatrics, asserting that the only beneficiaries of this decision would be Hamas. He suggested that if terrorists are in support of such resolutions, genuine progress toward peace is not being made.
Anne Beyfsky of the Turo Institute of Human Rights warned that including provisions favorable to Hamas could destabilize existing diplomatic coalitions and urged a strong American response.
The nations voting against this resolution included Argentina, Hungary, Israel, and several others. Beyfsky expressed her shock at the German government’s support, deeming it damaging to the essential need for Jewish self-determination.
Upcoming UN Conference on Palestinian Statehood
On Friday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced plans for an imminent visit to Israel in anticipation of a significant UN conference where nations, including France and the UK, are expected to formally acknowledge Palestinian statehood.
