France’s Foreign Ministry has refuted U.S. Senator Marco Rubio’s assertion that France’s recognition of Palestinian statehood undermined ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas. In a response posted on X, the French Foreign Ministry’s official account directly contradicted Rubio, stating that the recognition of Palestine did not cause the collapse of hostage negotiations. The post included a timeline of events, comparing a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the breakdown of peace talks in Gaza with French President Emmanuel Macron’s later announcement of Palestinian statehood recognition. Macron emphasized that Hamas must be disarmed and have no role in governing Gaza. This exchange represents an escalation in the diplomatic tensions following Rubio’s criticism of France’s decision, which he had previously called ‘reckless.’ Rubio had earlier criticized Macron’s initiative, claiming it would serve Hamas’s propaganda and hinder peace efforts. He further claimed that Hamas abandoned peace talks following France’s announcement. Macron had declared France’s official recognition of Palestinian statehood during the United Nations General Assembly. Other countries, including Australia, Canada, Portugal, and the United Kingdom, are also expected to recognize Palestine during the Assembly. Belgium has also called for recognition of the State of Palestine and sanctions against Israel. France and Saudi Arabia are scheduled to co-chair a conference on the Two-State Solution on September 22 in New York, aimed at fostering international support for regional peace and security. Macron has also urged the U.S. to reverse its decision to deny visas to Palestinian officials, highlighting the necessity of Palestinian representation at the conference.
