US Senator Marco Rubio has launched a scathing attack on France over its potential recognition of a Palestinian state, accusing Paris of effectively 'rewarding terrorism'. The Republican senator claimed such a move would embolden Hamas and undermine Israel's security.
In a fiery statement, Rubio argued that recognising Palestine now would send the wrong message after Hamas's 7 October attacks on Israel. 'This is not the time to reward terrorists with statehood,' he declared.
Diplomatic tensions rise
The controversy comes as French President Emmanuel Macron recently suggested France might unilaterally recognise Palestinian statehood, breaking with traditional Western alignment on the issue. Macron's comments have stirred significant debate within international diplomatic circles.
Rubio, known for his hawkish foreign policy stance, warned that premature recognition could destabilise the region further. 'It would undermine any chance for lasting peace and encourage more violence,' the Florida senator asserted.
Broader implications
The debate reflects growing divisions among Western nations about how to approach the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While some European countries have moved toward recognising Palestine, the US and others maintain recognition should only come through direct negotiations between the parties.
Political analysts suggest Macron's position may be influenced by domestic political considerations as well as France's historical role in Middle Eastern affairs. However, critics like Rubio argue such moves could damage France's credibility as an honest broker in the region.
