An open letter, signed by 25 Republicans, was addressed to Albanese, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carey; it was also sent to US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The letter asserted that recognizing Palestinian statehood by each country constitutes a reward for terrorism and for Hamas’ actions on October 7, 2023.

“Hamas’ war crimes are evident, and its rejection of diplomatic efforts should lead your countries to apply more pressure. Instead, you provide greater rewards,” the letter stated.

“Rewarding entities that refuse to renounce violence or engage in meaningful negotiations only serves to further entrench divisions and instability.”

The letter concludes with a warning that “punitive measures” could occur if each country continues to defy the United States’ policy on the issue.

“The United States remains committed to Israel’s security and fostering a just and lasting peace in the Middle East through direct negotiations,” it stated. 

“Unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state jeopardizes this, risking the perpetuation of tensions and rewarding terrorist entities that aim for Israel’s destruction.”