The United States has announced it will not participate in a conference on the two-state solution hosted by the United Nations in New York City this week. The U.S. government described the event as "an unproductive and ill-timed conference" and called it a "publicity stunt that comes in the middle of delicate diplomatic efforts to end the conflict."
According to Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce, "Far from promoting peace, the conference will prolong the war, embolden Hamas, and reward its obstruction and undermine real-world efforts to achieve peace."
Bruce referenced Secretary Rubio's position, stating, "As Secretary Rubio has made clear, this effort is a slap in the face to the victims of October 7th and a reward for terrorism. It keeps hostages trapped in tunnels. The United States will not participate in this insult but will continue to lead real-world efforts to end the fighting and deliver a permanent peace. Our focus remains on serious diplomacy: not stage-managed conferences designed to manufacture the appearance of relevance."
The statement also addressed French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent announcement about recognizing a Palestinian state. Bruce said, "President Macron’s announcement about recognizing a Palestinian state was welcomed by Hamas. This reflects a pattern of counterproductive gestures that only emboldens Hamas, encourages its obstruction of a ceasefire, and greatly undercuts our diplomatic efforts to end the suffering in Gaza, free the hostages, and move the whole Middle East towards a brighter and more prosperous future."
The United States reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing diplomatic work aimed at ending violence in Gaza and supporting long-term stability in the region.