On September 4, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio argued that premature recognition of a Palestinian state undermines U.S. foreign policy, destabilizes the Middle East peace process, and ultimately rewards Hamas and extremist groups instead of advancing real negotiations. Rubio’s remarks reflect growing tensions within Western alliances as European leaders, led by France, signal steps toward unilateral recognition of Palestine. Rubio’s remarks came amid a deadlock in negotiations on Gaza ceasefire. Watch his full statement here.