Trump says Palestinian statehood would reward Hamas

Sep 23, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during the 80th United Nations General Assembly, in New York City, New York, U.S., September 23, 2025. REUTERS/Jeenah Moon — Jeenah Moon

NEW YORK, September 23 (Reuters) -Recognition of a Palestinian state would be too great a reward for Hamas, U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday, repeating his call for the release of hostages - dead or alive - still held by the militant group in Gaza.

Trump called for an immediate end to the war in Gaza. Those who supported peace should united in demanding the release of the hostages, he said in a speech at the United Nations.

"As if to encourage continued conflict, some of this body is seeking to unilaterally recognize the Palestinian state. The rewards would be too great for Hamas terrorists, for their atrocities," he said.

(Reporting by Gram Slattery, writing by Andrea Shalal)

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