Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem
Jerusalem, Sep 15: On a high-stakes visit to Israel, US secretary of state Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s “unwavering support” for Israel’s ongoing military offensive in Gaza, declaring that Hamas must be eradicated before peace or progress can be achieved in the region.
“The people of Gaza deserve a better future — but that future cannot begin until Hamas is eliminated,” Rubio stated during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem.
Rubio’s remarks were aimed at bolstering Israel’s position amid growing international scrutiny and calls for a ceasefire. He emphasized that the United States remains firmly aligned with Israel’s security goals, and reassured Netanyahu that the US commitment is “unshakable.”
Netanyahu, in turn, described Rubio’s visit as a “clear message” of continued US support. The two leaders reportedly discussed the objectives of Israel’s military campaign, including the destruction of Hamas infrastructure and the rescue of nearly 50 hostages still held by the militant group.
Rubio also slammed recent moves by some Western nations to recognize a Palestinian state, calling such gestures “symbolic at best” and counterproductive.
“These recognitions don’t bring us any closer to peace — instead, they embolden Hamas,” Rubio said, warning that legitimizing Palestinian statehood amid ongoing conflict would only complicate the situation on the ground.
When asked about the controversial Israeli airstrike in Doha last week, which killed six people including a Qatari security officer, Rubio declined to comment directly, saying:
“We are focused on what happens next.”
The strike reportedly targeted a Hamas negotiation team involved in truce talks but missed its intended targets, further straining Israel’s relations with Gulf states.
Meanwhile, Israel’s military continued its intensified assault on Gaza City, striking multiple high-rise buildings allegedly used by Hamas for intelligence operations. Israeli officials said the offensive is part of a broader effort to seize full control of the city.
According to Army Radio, around 300,000 residents have fled Gaza City in recent days, amid growing fears of a large-scale ground operation.
Israel’s military confirmed it had demolished two towers on Monday, claiming they were linked to Hamas surveillance and command networks.
As the humanitarian toll rises and regional tensions deepen, Rubio’s visit underscores Washington’s strategic alignment with Israel — even as it navigates rising criticism from parts of the international community and Arab world.