Paris: Former US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed criticism over the decision by France, Canada, Australia, and the UK to recognize Palestine, labeling it as 'too hasty.'

According to Anadolu Agency, Blinken conveyed his views in an opinion piece for the Wall Street Journal, arguing that while the decision was morally correct, it was not aligned with the reality of the ongoing situation. He emphasized that the focus on recognition was misplaced amid the ongoing Gaza crisis and the pressing needs of Palestinian civilians and Israeli hostages. Blinken stressed the importance of prioritizing efforts to avert famine, recover hostages, and end the conflict in Gaza over discussions of a two-state solution at this time.

Blinken further advocated for a 'time-bound, conditions-based path toward recognizing a Palestinian state,' suggesting that recognition should not be unconditional. He highlighted the responsibility that comes with the Palestinians' right to self-determination and argued that meeting certain conditions would effectively counter Hamas's agenda of violence. He proposed a reasonable timeframe of three years to demonstrate to Israel and the world that an independent Palestine would focus on state-building rather than conflict.

The administration of former US President Joe Biden faced considerable protests due to its unwavering support for Israel during its term. In addition to the routine annual military aid of $3.5 billion to Israel, the Biden administration approved $18 billion in additional military aid within a year. During Blinken's final speech in office, he was protested by both journalists and demonstrators who labeled him the 'Secretary of Genocide,' leading to the forced removal of journalists by police, a move that attracted widespread condemnation.

Nihad Awad, president of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), criticized the US for disregarding reports of human rights violations by Israel. In an interview with Anadolu in February, he accused former President Biden and Blinken of covering up and rejecting internal reports from the State Department and the White House on these violations.