Is Granting Recognition to Palestine Rewarding Hamas?
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Synopsis
In a bold address at the UNGA, President Trump criticized the recognition of Palestine as a 'reward' for Hamas, urging the group to return hostages. With rising global concerns over Gaza's humanitarian crisis, Trump's stance raises questions about the future of peace in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Trump criticized the recognition of Palestine as a reward for Hamas.
- He urged Hamas to return hostages and remains to Israel.
- 156 countries have recognized Palestine, raising international concerns.
- The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is a pressing issue.
- Trump did not mention Netanyahu in relation to Gaza.
New Delhi, Sep 23 (NationPress) In his inaugural address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) this Tuesday, United States President Donald Trump urged Hamas to return all hostages and the remains of those killed back to Israel.
He criticized the militant group for its role in the ongoing turmoil in Gaza.
“As everyone is aware, I have been actively pursuing a ceasefire in Gaza. Sadly, Hamas has consistently dismissed fair proposals aimed at achieving peace,” he remarked regarding the conflict.
Describing the recent recognition of Palestine by numerous UN member states as a “reward” for Hamas, he emphasized, “We cannot overlook October 7, 2023. Some organizations are now seeking to unilaterally recognize the Palestinian state, seemingly to fuel conflict.”
Trump's address during the 80th session of the UNGA in New York coincides with escalating concerns from global leaders regarding the living conditions of Gaza's residents amidst ongoing Israeli attacks.
As expected, the President reaffirmed his opposition to the acknowledgment of Palestinian statehood.
While asserting that he has successfully halted seven wars during his two-term presidency, he attributed the ongoing violence in Gaza to Hamas.
In his comments on the war in Ukraine, he identified President Vladimir Putin as a significant factor in resolving the conflict, but he did not mention Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu concerning the Gaza situation.
While addressing the UNGA, Trump highlighted that 156 countries had formally recognized Palestine following similar acknowledgments from France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and Andorra on Monday.
This recognition was also echoed earlier by nations including the United Kingdom, Portugal, Australia, and Canada.
Palestine welcomed the development, while Israel criticized it.
In a statement similar to Trump’s, Jerusalem noted that recognizing Palestine as a state, without a firm stance against Hamas, effectively rewards the group responsible for the brutal attacks on October 7, 2023, in southern Israel.
The United Nations consists of 193 sovereign nations. Palestine holds observer status; its membership has been previously vetoed by the United States, one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council.
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Point of View
President Trump's remarks at the UNGA highlight a critical viewpoint on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His perspective, while controversial, reflects a broader concern regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the challenges of achieving lasting peace. The international community must navigate these discussions with care, focusing on constructive dialogue and solutions.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Trump say about Hamas at the UNGA?
Trump urged Hamas to return all hostages and condemned their rejection of peace offers, calling the recognition of Palestine a reward for the terror group.
How many countries recognized Palestine?
As of now, 156 countries have officially recognized the state of Palestine, including recent acknowledgments from several European nations.
What was the reaction from Israel regarding the recognition of Palestine?
Israel criticized the recognition, stating that it rewards Hamas and undermines efforts to address the group's violent actions.
What is the significance of October 7, 2023?
October 7, 2023, marks a significant date due to the brutal attacks carried out by Hamas in southern Israel, impacting the ongoing discourse about Gaza.
What is the UN's stance on Palestine's membership?
Palestine currently holds observer status in the UN, as its full membership has been vetoed by the United States.
