Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized on Monday that the visit of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivers a “clear and powerful message” that Washington stands firmly alongside Israel. The remarks came during a joint press conference held in Jerusalem, where the two leaders met amid growing tensions in Gaza and rising international criticism of Israel’s recent actions.
“Your presence here today shows that America remains committed to standing with Israel,” Netanyahu told Rubio. He also praised President Donald Trump, calling him “the best friend Israel has ever had in the White House.”
U.S. Pledges Unwavering Support, Urges Elimination of Hamas
In his own remarks, Secretary Rubio reaffirmed the United States’ “unshakable commitment” to Israel’s security and its goals in Gaza. He reiterated Washington’s position that Hamas must be eliminated, stating that a peaceful future for Gaza’s civilians “cannot begin until Hamas is no longer in power.”
Rubio warned that recent moves by some U.S. allies—such as recognizing a Palestinian state—have only emboldened Hamas rather than bringing the region closer to peace. He described such recognition as largely symbolic and unhelpful, arguing it undermines the path to a meaningful and lasting solution.
Qatar Strike Fallout and Upcoming Diplomatic Push
The visit follows a controversial Israeli airstrike in Doha that targeted senior Hamas figures, sparking outrage across the Arab world. The strike occurred while ceasefire negotiations were reportedly underway in the Qatari capital, casting doubt on Israel’s commitment to diplomacy and raising concerns over violations of Qatari sovereignty.
Despite U.S. discomfort with the strike, Rubio downplayed any rift, insisting that disagreements over individual incidents would not damage the core alliance between the United States and Israel.
Rubio is scheduled to visit Qatar next, where he is expected to address the fallout from the strike and continue discussions around the Gaza conflict.
Pressure on Iran, Jerusalem Visit, and Political Symbolism
Rubio also addressed concerns over Iran, pledging that Washington will maintain “maximum pressure” to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He called a nuclear-armed Iran an “unacceptable threat,” not only to Israel and the U.S., but to global security.
Later, Rubio visited the Western Wall in Jerusalem, reaffirming his personal belief that the city is Israel’s “eternal capital.” His visit, which included a tour of archaeological sites and planned meetings with families of Israeli hostages, is seen as a symbolic reaffirmation of U.S. support for Israeli claims over the contested city.
The visit has drawn criticism from Palestinian leaders and rights groups, who view it as a provocation and a violation of the historical and legal status of East Jerusalem, which Palestinians claim as the capital of a future state.
