Part 4/6:
Rubio’s visit coincides with ongoing debates over the future of Judea and Samaria, known as the West Bank. Among the focal points is the recent UN General Assembly resolution, which called for the recognition of a Palestinian state—a move opposed by Israel, the U.S., and several other nations. The resolution was non-binding, but it marked a contentious moment in international diplomacy, with 12 countries abstaining from voting.
In parallel, a State Department memo reportedly criticized an upcoming French-Saudi conference on Palestinian statehood, describing it as a "reward for terrorism" that potentially undermines U.S. national security interests. This illustrates the delicate diplomatic balancing act facing Western allies amid a complex geopolitical landscape.