US Pledges 'Unwavering Support' to Israel in Gaza, Rubio Says Time is Short for Peace Deal
In a recent visit to Israel, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washington's unwavering support
for its ally and called for an end to Hamas, in line with President Trump's desire to see the war in Gaza conclude soon. Rubio's remarks came amid growing international scrutiny and escalating tensions in the region.
Background and Context
Rubio's visit to Israel came less than a week after Israel targeted Hamas leaders in Qatar, raising eyebrows among allies and drawing criticism from various quarters, including India, France, and Russia. The Secretary of State's support for Israel's new offensive on Gaza City has cast doubt on whether diplomacy would work to end nearly two years of war.
During his visit, Rubio met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, promising the US's unwavering support
to Israel in achieving its goals in Gaza. The people of Gaza deserve a better future, but that better future cannot begin until Hamas is eliminated,
Rubio told reporters.
Key Developments
In a joint press conference with Netanyahu, Rubio called for the disarmament of Hamas and stressed that it must cease to exist as an armed element that can threaten the peace and security of the region
. The Secretary of State also warned of a possible 'Israeli counter-reaction' if allies recognize Palestine.
Furthermore, Rubio highlighted Washington's commitment to continue exerting maximum pressure on Iran, which backs Hamas, until Tehran changes course
.
Implications and Reactions
Rubio's remarks have stirred controversy, with stakeholders and observers around the world expressing diverging views. The US Secretary of State's backing of the Israeli offensive and call for the elimination of Hamas have been met with resistance from some quarters, while others have viewed it as a reaffirmation of the strong US-Israel relationship.
In a significant development, Rubio stated that Hamas has a short window of time
to accept a ceasefire deal in Gaza, adding that the situation might not have months, but just days or weeks to go. Rubio also said that Qatar is the only country that can mediate in the conflict, setting the stage for his short visit to the Middle Eastern nation.
Current Status and Future Course
As the situation remains tense, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has called on Qatar to either expel Hamas or bring them to justice
, warning of further action if it refused. This demand followed Israeli strikes that targeted Hamas officials in Doha, provoking international outrage.
In his concluding remarks, Rubio hinted that a diplomatic solution to the ongoing conflict may not be possible, reflecting the delicate and volatile nature of the situation. As the world watches, the future course of the conflict and the role of international diplomacy in resolving it remains to be seen.