Trump calls recognition of Palestinian state ‘reward for Hamas’, demands immediate release of hostages

Hamas welcomes Palestinian state

Several countries, including France, the UK, Canada, Portugal, Australia, Andorra, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and Monaco, recognised the Palestinian state at the ongoing UNGA, much to the dismay of Israel and the US.

In a statement, Hamas welcomed the recognition of a Palestinian state by Western countries, but insisted that they will not disarm, which is a key demand by Israel to end the ongoing war in Gaza.

“Weapons of the resistance are a national right anchored by all international laws and treaties, until the end of the occupation and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with its capital in Jerusalem,” Hamas said in a statement.

The international recognition of the Palestinian state is a symbolic gesture, and it is unlikely to change the realities on the ground. A furious Netanyahu also made it clear that his country will not allow the formation of a free Palestinian state.

‘Release hostages now’

At his UNGA address, Trump also demanded that Hamas immediately release all hostages living and dead that it’s holding in Gaza, saying the time for partial releases is over.

“We have to stop the war in Gaza immediately. We have to negotiate immediately. But instead of giving in to Hamas’ ransom demands, those who want peace should be united with one message: release the hostages now. Just release the hostages now,” he said.

Guterres calls for ceasefire in Gaza

Earlier, during his opening address at the UN General Assembly, Secretary General António Guterres described the situation in Gaza as the result of decisions that defy basic humanity and “a scale of death and destruction beyond any other conflict.”

He also called for the full and immediate implementation of the International Court of Justice measures, a permanent ceasefire, the release of all hostages and humanitarian access.