NEW YORK: US President Donald Trump said that a high-level meeting concerning the situation in Gaza was “very successful,” despite ongoing disagreements over the recognition of a Palestinian state.
Speaking to reporters after departing the United Nations headquarters in New York during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Trump said, “We had a very good meeting concerning Gaza. It was a very successful meeting with all the big players, except for Israel. But that’s going to be next.”
During his address at the 80th session of the UNGA, President Trump reiterated his opposition to unilateral moves by some countries to recognise a Palestinian state, calling such efforts a “reward” for Hamas.
He also reiterated his call for a ceasefire and an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. “As if to encourage continued conflict, some of this body is seeking to unilaterally recognise a Palestinian state. The rewards would be too great for Hamas terrorists for their atrocities,” Trump told world leaders at the UN.
His remarks came in response to several European nations announcing their decision to recognise a Palestinian state during a summit at the UNGA on Monday. Though largely symbolic, the move further strained Israel’s diplomatic standing. The United States, however, has not supported such a step.
“Recognising a Palestinian state would be a reward for these horrible atrocities, including October 7, even while they refuse to release the hostages or accept a ceasefire,” he said and suggested a different course of action, stating, “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.”
Trump emphasised the urgency of halting the war in Gaza, adding, “We have to stop the war in Gaza immediately. We have to stop it. … We have to negotiate immediately. Have to negotiate peace. We got to get the hostages back.”
According to Israel, 1,200 people were killed in Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, while more than 65,000 people have been killed in Gaza in Israel’s counter-military strikes. (ANI)
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