Rubio says recognition of Palestine just emboldens 'barbaric animals' Hamas

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during a visit to Israel, has dismissed other countries' recognition of a Palestinian state as a "largely symbolic" move. After meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Rubio stated that such actions only embolden Hamas and are an impediment to peace. His comments follow the recognition of Palestine by Norway, Spain, and Ireland, with the UK and France also indicating they would do so.