US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Israeli leaders in Jerusalem over the weekend to discuss key regional issues, including the future of Gaza, the fight against Hamas, and efforts to counter Iran. During his visit, Rubio held separate meetings with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog, and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar.
Following their discussions, Netanyahu reaffirmed that the US and Israel are “working in full cooperation and coordination” on Gaza. He thanked Rubio for the “unequivocal backing” of Israel’s strategy, particularly in dealing with Hamas. The meetings took place as the two countries sought to ensure the release of six remaining Israeli hostages under the first phase of the ceasefire agreement.
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Rubio echoed Netanyahu’s stance, stating that Iran remains the “single greatest source of instability” in the Middle East. “There cannot be a nuclear Iran,” he emphasized during a press conference.
Another focus of Rubio’s visit was expanding the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations. Discussions also included bringing additional embassies to Jerusalem, fighting antisemitism, and strengthening economic ties across the region. Sa’ar and Rubio agreed to schedule a visit to Washington to further these initiatives.
Rubio also praised President Donald Trump’s firm stance on Gaza, particularly his proposal for a postwar future in the Strip. “Not the same old tired ideas of the past,” Rubio said, referencing President Trump’s controversial plan to relocate Palestinians and place Gaza under US administration. He stressed that Hamas “must be eradicated” for peace to be possible.
Rubio’s Middle East trip, which was planned for over a month, includes stops in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.