The United States has rejected the upcoming United Nations conference on the two-state solution, labeling the initiative a “publicity stunt” that undermines ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the war on Gaza.

“This is a publicity stunt that comes in the middle of delicate diplomatic efforts to end the conflict,” said US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce on Monday.

Bruce claimed that the conference would only serve to prolong the war, embolden Hamas, and derail what she described as genuine efforts toward peace in the region.

Bruce also criticized the decision by French President Emmanuel Macron to move toward recognizing a Palestinian state, saying the move was welcomed by Hamas and contradicts the diplomatic trajectory preferred by the United States.

Growing international momentum for Palestinian statehood

Despite US opposition, international momentum toward recognizing the State of Palestine continues to build. Earlier on Monday, the United Kingdom announced plans to recognize Palestine before its next general election, expected by mid-2029.

The move follows a letter signed on Friday by 221 British lawmakers from nine political parties, urging Prime Minister Keir Starmer to take concrete steps toward recognition.

Trump claims humanitarian crisis in Gaza a priority

Separately, US President Donald Trump emphasized the urgency of addressing the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip before making further political moves. He stated that alleviating the suffering of Palestinians must be a priority.

Meanwhile, senior Hamas official Izzat al-Rishq responded to statements made by Trump denying famine in the Gaza Strip and accusing the movement of stealing aid. The movement asserted that these allegations reinforce the occupation's narrative and provide it with additional cover to continue its war of extermination against the Palestinians.

In a statement, al-Rishq condemned Trump's statements, saying they "deny the famine despite the testimony of the United Nations and international organizations, and the deaths of dozens of children from starvation due to the siege and the prevention of food and medicine entry."

The movement's leader denied allegations of aid theft, citing an internal investigation conducted by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) that revealed the US State Department had not provided any evidence against Hamas, and that Reuters confirmed the absence of any reports indicating systematic theft.