The Secretary of State Marco Rubio began his first tour of the Middle East with an official visit to Israel, where he reaffirmed the close relationship between Washington and Tel Aviv.
In a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Rubio emphasized the strategic alliance between both countries and praised the role of President Donald Trump in strengthening these ties.
"It was an honor to return to Israel, this time as Secretary of State. Returning to Israel was important due to our unwavering friendship and solidarity. Israel has not had a greater ally in the White House than President Trump," Rubio stated at a joint press conference with Netanyahu.
During the meeting, both leaders discussed key topics on the bilateral agenda, such as regional security, the future of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and the threat posed by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
Rubio and Netanyahu discussed Trump's proposal to relocate the Palestinian population from the Gaza Strip to other countries.
Netanyahu emphasized the need for cooperation with the U.S. to ensure stability in the region and assured that his country is prepared to act in defense of its territory.
At the beginning of February, Trump announced that his new administration will take control of the Gaza Strip and will oversee its reconstruction.
"The United States will take charge of the Gaza Strip, and we will also work on it. We will own it and be responsible for dismantling all the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site," he stated.
This controversial proposal was rejected by Arab allies, such as Egypt and Jordan, who warn that it could destabilize the region and threaten peace.
Rubio acknowledged in Israel that Trump's stance may surprise many countries, but he insisted that the United States sees a need for change in the region. "The same cycle that we keep repeating cannot continue, because it ends up in the same place," were his statements quoted by Euro News.
It also made clear that Hamas must be eliminated and eradicated to ensure lasting peace in the Middle East.
"Hamas cannot continue as a military or governing force. And frankly, as long as it remains a force that can govern or a force that can administer, or a force that can threaten through the use of violence, peace becomes impossible," he noted.
The Rubio's tour of the Middle East will include visits to the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, where he will meet with senior officials to discuss security issues, economic cooperation, and geopolitical stability.
This visit marks the second international trip by the Secretary of State since he took office at the end of January. Previously, Rubio undertook a tour of Central America, visiting El Salvador, Guatemala, and Panama, with the aim of strengthening cooperation in security and economic development.
Moreover, on Saturday, Rubio had a phone conversation with the Russian Foreign Minister, Serguéi Lavrov, following a recent discussion between Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.
Frequently Asked Questions about Marco Rubio's Visit to the Middle East
What is the purpose of Marco Rubio's visit to Israel?
Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits Israel to reaffirm the strategic alliance between the United States and Israel and to highlight Donald Trump's role in strengthening these ties. During his meeting with Benjamin Netanyahu, they discussed issues such as regional security and the threat posed by Hamas.
What has Donald Trump proposed regarding the Gaza Strip?
Donald Trump has proposed that the United States take control of the Gaza Strip for its reconstruction and the relocation of the Palestinian population. This proposal has been controversial and rejected by several Arab allies, who fear it could destabilize the region.
What is Marco Rubio's stance on Hamas?
Marco Rubio asserts that Hamas must be eliminated to ensure lasting peace in the Middle East. Rubio believes that as long as Hamas continues to pose a threat through violence, peace in the region will be impossible to achieve.
What other countries will Marco Rubio visit during his tour of the Middle East?
In addition to Israel, Marco Rubio will visit the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. In these countries, he will discuss security issues, economic cooperation, and geopolitical stability.
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