UNITED NATIONS — President Trump on Tuesday pushed back at the wave of support for recognizing Palestinian statehood during his remarks at the U.N. General Assembly, saying it’s a “reward” for Hamas.

“As if to encourage continued conflict, some of this body is seeking to unilaterally recognize a Palestinian state. The rewards would be too great for Hamas terrorists for their atrocities,” Mr. Trump said.

His remarks are a pointed response to European countries announcing the recognition of a Palestinian state during a summit at the assembly in New York on Monday. It’s a symbolic move protested by Israel and the U.S.

The president said recognizing a Palestinian state “would be a reward for these horrible atrocities, including Oct. 7, [2023,] even while they refuse to release the hostages or accept a ceasefire.”

He added, “Instead of giving in to Hamas’ ransom demands, those who want peace should be united with one message: Release the hostages now, just release the hostages.”

“We have to stop the war in Gaza immediately,” Mr. Trump said. “We have to stop it. … We have to negotiate immediately. Have to negotiate peace. We’ve got to get the hostages back.”

• Jeff Mordock can be reached at jmordock@washingtontimes.com.