U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned other countries against recognizing a Palestinian state, stating it could create more problems. Speaking in Quito, Ecuador, during a meeting with President Daniel Noboa, Rubio said, “We told them all, if you recognize Palestine, it’s not real and will cause trouble.”
He warned that such recognition might hinder ceasefire efforts and lead to actions like those seen recently, though he avoided commenting on Israel’s discussions about West Bank annexation, noting they are not final.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio:
"The recognition of Palestine stuff is all fake. It is not even real." pic.twitter.com/mtiPwBr1oF
— Adi 🎗 (@Adi13) September 4, 2025
Rubio’s remarks come amid growing international support for Palestinian statehood, with 147 UN member states already recognizing it. Countries like France and the UK are considering formal recognition at the UN General Assembly in September 2025, citing Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. However, the U.S. remains a firm supporter of Israel, with Rubio arguing that statehood recognition could embolden groups like Hamas.
Read: Quinnipiac Poll Reveals 50% of U.S. Voters View Israel’s Gaza Actions as Genocide
Rubio’s stance reflects U.S. foreign policy’s influence on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His warning highlights tensions over statehood and ceasefire efforts, impacting global diplomacy.