Israel's government could potentially take action regarding sovereignty over certain territories, following pressure to establish a Palestinian state.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a joint press conference with Ecuadorian Foreign Minister Gabriela Sommerfeld in Quito, Ecuador, on Thursday. During the conference, Rubio weighed in on the contentious issue of Palestinian statehood recognition.

Rubio stated that the recognition of Palestinian statehood by some countries is illusory, potentially creating problems and triggering Israeli actions such as enacting sovereignty over Judea and Samaria. He did not express a view on Israeli plans for sovereignty over these regions, but mentioned it is being discussed among Israeli politics.

Rubio warned countries planning to unilaterally recognize Palestinian statehood that such actions could make it harder to reach a ceasefire in the region. He cited the French announcement of recognizing a Palestinian state as an example, which he said led Hamas to walk away from the negotiating table and increase their demands. Rubio expressed that the US had predicted and warned about the potential consequences of such actions.

However, Rubio did not specify which countries he was referring to when he mentioned countries planning to unilaterally recognize Palestinian statehood. In 2024 and particularly in 2025, several countries including France, the United Kingdom, Malta, Canada, Portugal, Australia, New Zealand, and Belgium announced intentions or considerations to recognize Palestine as a state at the UN General Assembly, not in 2021.

Rubio also addressed the issue of Hamas, stating that the elimination of Hamas and disarming Hamas are key to ending the war in Gaza. He suggested that Hamas could end the conflict tomorrow if they disarm, surrender, and release the hostages. Rubio emphasized that the focus should be on ending the war in Gaza.

One of the controversial policies Rubio mentioned was the Palestinian Authority's policy of 'pay-for-slay,' where they pay people for killing Israelis. He warned that such actions could make a ceasefire harder to achieve.

Rubio also made it clear that the US is closely watching the issue but would not offer an opinion on it. His comments do not indicate any specific stance or decision by the US regarding Israeli plans to enact sovereignty over Judea and Samaria.

In conclusion, Rubio's comments serve as a reminder of the complexities and potential repercussions of recognizing Palestinian statehood and the importance of finding a peaceful solution to the ongoing conflict in the region.